Services Set for State Trooper Killed in I-294 Crash

Funeral arrangements are set for an Illinois State Trooper who was killed when a semi truck collided with his squad car in the northwest suburbs Thursday.

Trooper James Sauter was pulled over on the left shoulder on I-294 south of Willow Road just after 11 p.m. when he was hit from behind by the semi. Both vehicles burst into flames, and 28-year-old Sauter was killed, Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau confirmed.

Visitation is set for Monday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Moraine Valley Church, 6300 W. 127th St. in Palos Heights, according to ISP spokeswoman Monique Bond. The funeral is scheduled to begin at the church at 11 a.m. Tuesday.

Sauter joined the force in June 2008 and he recently returned to patrol after spending several months as a pilot in the Air Operations department.

An autopsy revealed Sauter died of "thermal injuries from a post-crash fire," the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office said. He also suffered inhalation and minor closed head injuries, according to the medical examiner’s office. His death was ruled an accident.

“Trooper Sauter represented everything good about the police department," Director Grau said Friday. "Our focus now is to be with the Sauter family every step of the way and to support his fellow officers and colleagues."

A civic group, the 100 Club of Chicago recently stepped forward to assist Sauter's family, offering them the first installment of what will eventually be $50,000 in support.

"Trooper Sauter left a legacy of courage, honor and duty and we will never forget Star #6095," Grau said. "Our hearts are heavy with grief, but they are also strengthened by Trooper Sauter’s brave calling and dedicated service to ISP.”

 

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