Memorial services for Illinois State Trooper Christopher Lambert, who was killed last weekend on the Tri-state Tollway, were scheduled for Thursday night.
Late in the afternoon, a big group of state troopers walked into Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington to say their final goodbyes.
Dozens of flags line the drive leading to the church were patrol cars filled the parking lot.
Fellow law enforcement officers stood shoulder to shoulder, banding together to remember a fallen brother. They gathered from across the region in remembrance of 34-year-oldd Lambert.
He was killed Saturday afternoon when he was struck by a vehicle on I-294. He was outside of his vehicle at the time--responding to a crash on the left shoulder of the road. Officials say he was protecting the accident victims with his patrol car when he was hit by a northbound vehicle.
"He died protecting the citizens of the state of Illinois," Illinois State Police Director Leo Schmitz said. "All of law enforcement does that. It’s what we do."
A five-year veteran of the force who had served in the U.S. Army, many remember him as a hard-working go-getter who was loved by all.
Thursday's private visitation drew hundreds who came out to pay their respects to the young officer who leaves behind a wife and 1-year-old daughter.
Officers will take part in a walking procession at the church Thursday evening. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is expected to attend.
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Lambert’s funeral and burial is scheduled for Friday morning.
