Fallen ISP Trooper Thompson honored in press conference

PESOTUM, Ill. (WCIA) — Following the death of an Illinois Trooper, Illinois State Police held a conference in his honor.

WCIA reported that Trooper Corey S. Thompsen was taken to Carle Foundation Hospital’s emergency department where he was pronounced dead on Friday. On Saturday, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly talked about the trooper’s character and what he meant to the department.

“Corey was a great trooper who greatly dedicated his life to service of others,” Kelly said.

Kelly was joined by ISP officers to mourn the death of trooper Corey Thompsen. Thompsen was struck by a truck while returning from an enforcement detail. He was taken by ambulance to Carle Foundation Hospital.

“He succumbed to his injuries. And he was pronounced deceased at 4:32 p.m.,” Kelly said.

An investigation has begun to look into the crash. So far there has been no evidence of impairment causing the accident. The process is still ongoing.

“In accordance with protocol, Governor Pritzker is ordering flags across Illinois to be lowered to half-staff, to honor the death of Trooper Thompson,” Kelly said.

Organizations throughout the state are mourning.

“This is a sad moment. We are hurting, for his brothers and sisters, and law enforcement bureau… we are all hurting,” Kelly said.

The director said Trooper Thompsen was someone to look up to.

“Cory and those like him, they are the few who quietly dedicate their careers and their lives serving the public and helping others without fanfare, without glory. Often without so much as a thank you,” Kelly said.

Despite their heavy hearts, ISP is determined to carry on Thompsen’s legacy.

“Our hearts are broken today, but our spirit is not. To allow our spirit to be broken would dishonor what Trooper Thompson and his family and the ISP stand for,” Kelly said.

Director Kelly made sure to thank all the organizations who helped on Friday, including Carle’ s ambulance and first responders. He also asked for thoughts and prayers to be with Thompsen’s family.

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