State Trooper Killed in Crash

An Illinois State Police trooper was fatally injured in a crash west of Champaign Wednesday afternoon.

State Police Director Leo Schmitz said Trooper Ryan Albin died at approximately 8:45pm. The crash happened shortly after 3pm on I-74 near Farmer City. Initial reports were that Trooper Albin's squad car was struck by a semi while the vehicles were entering a construction zone.

(TR. RYAN ALBIN)

"Our hearts are heavy with grief as we mourn the loss of Trooper Albin," stated Director Schmitz. "I extend my deepest sympathy to Trooper Albin's family, friends and co-workers. I pray that those who cared for and loved him find the strength they need during this most difficult time. No further words can express the pain and loss we are all feeling."

Trooper Albin joined the ISP on January 8, 2006. He was assigned to District 6 in Pontiac as a canine officer. Trooper Albin's canine partner, "Biko", was in the rear of the squad car at the time of the crash. Biko was transported to a local veterinarian's office and appears to have sustained only minor injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.