Michigan state police trooper Joel Popp, 39, killed after he was hit by 81-year-old driver during a traffic stop

A TROOPER has died after he was hit by a driver while carrying out a traffic stop.

Cops in Michigan said the incident happened on Wednesday night.

Joel Popp, 39, suffered serious injuries and was rushed to the hospital, where he later died, per Michigan State Police.

Police revealed he was probing a driver who was allegedly impaired on Interstate 75 in Saginaw County.

Cops said a man, 81, collided with two cars and hit Popp, who was outside his vehicle.

The officer driver suffered serious injuries but is expected to survive.

Popp had been part of the Michigan State Police Force since January 2020.

“This is a message none of us wishes to deliver. With a very heavy heart, I confirm the death of one of our own, Tpr. Joel Popp," Col. James F. Grady II, the director of Michigan State Police, said.

Tributes have been paid to Popp.

"Thank you for your service Trooper Popp! Praying for his family and friends," one mourner said.

"This is truly heartbreaking. Praying for the family, and I'm so sorry this happened. Thank you for your service, sir!!" another commented.

Police departments have paid tribute to Popp.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters at the Michigan State Police for losing one of their own, and the family of Trooper Popp," The Lapeer County Sheriff's Office said.

"Please, please, please remember to slow down and move over if you see an emergency vehicle or disabled vehicle on the shoulder of a road.

"We cannot stress this enough, only 2 weeks after 2 of our deputies were struck. We've all got the watch for you, Trooper."

The officer is the 56th trooper to be killed in the line of duty, per Michigan State Police.

Popp leaves behind his wife Stefanie and his young daughter.