An Illinois State Trooper has died in an overnight car crash in Chicago’s northern suburbs.
State police officials say Trooper James Sauter was pronounced dead at the scene early Friday morning after his squad car was struck by a truck tractor semi-trailer on southbound I-294 at Willow Road.
“Trooper Sauter left a legacy of courage, honor and duty,” Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau said, in a statement."Our hearts are heavy with grief, but they’re strengthened by Trooper Sauter’s brave calling and dedicated service to ISP.”
Police say Sauter had been a member of the Illinois State Police since June of 2008. He had just completed a temporary assignment in Air Operations, and was recently reassigned as a patrolman. Trooper Sauter was 28 years old.
