Trooper injured in morning collision
JEROME, Idaho (KIFI) - UPDATE 9/9/22: At about 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Idaho State Police Sergeant Mike Wendler responded to a vehicle fire on westbound I-84 in Jerome County and was struck by a passing car while directing traffic.
Sgt Wendler was critically injured and airlifted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls for medical attention, where he remains in critical condition.“
Yesterday was a difficult day for the men and women who serve with the Idaho State Police. We are grateful for the numerous police, fire, and other agencies across our state who stepped in to help,” Colonel Kedrick Wills said. “We are profoundly humbled by the outpouring of support we received from the people of our great state. It has reinforced our belief that Idaho is truly a great place to live and serve. Until we know more, we ask you to keep Sergeant Wendler, his family, friends, and co-workers in your prayers as we continue through this challenging time.”
An ISP trooper established a GoFundMe account, with all proceeds going directly to the Wendler family, to help with expenses incurred as a result of this incident.
ORIGINAL: Early Thursday morning, an Idaho State Police trooper directing traffic was struck by a vehicle and injured.
At about 8:30 a.m., a sergeant responded to a vehicle fire on westbound I-84 in Jerome County. While providing traffic control, he was struck by a passing vehicle. The sergeant, who was critically injured, was provided immediate aid and flown by Air St Luke's to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls. There are no current updates on his medical status.
The driver of the passing vehicle that struck the sergeant remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. As the collision occurred within city limits, the Jerome Police Department is conducting the criminal investigation.
Eastbound I-84 was closed to traffic for about three and a half hours while detectives investigate the scene, but it is now open to traffic.
