CHICAGO — An Illinois State Police trooper was injured in the early hours of Saturday morning when a suspected drunk driver slammed into the officer’s squad car as they were responding to a separate crash on Interstate 57 near south suburban Posen.
The crash happened around 1:45 a.m. near 147th Street, where the trooper was seated inside their patrol vehicle, investigating a prior traffic incident. That’s when a Mercedes-Benz C300, allegedly driven by 33-year-old Brian Blackwell Jr. of Chicago, rear-ended the squad car at high speed.
Driver Cited for DUI and Scott’s Law Violation
Authorities confirmed that Blackwell was cited for driving under the influence (DUI) and violating Scott’s Law, which requires drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles with flashing lights.
Both Blackwell and the trooper were transported to a local hospital to be treated for injuries. The extent of their conditions has not yet been made public, but the trooper is expected to recover.
Scott’s Law, named after Lieutenant Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department who was killed by a drunk driver in 2000, has seen a spike in violations across Illinois. The law mandates that drivers yield to emergency vehicles stopped on the roadside, and failing to do so can result in heavy fines or jail time, especially when it results in injury.
Recent Incidents Highlight Dangers for First Responders
This crash adds to a troubling trend in Illinois where emergency personnel have increasingly become victims of roadside accidents, often due to reckless or impaired driving. In 2024 alone, Illinois State Police reported over 1,000 Scott’s Law violations — a statistic they say underscores the urgency of heightened public awareness.
In recent years, the Illinois General Assembly has increased penalties for Scott’s Law violations, but law enforcement agencies say that driver compliance remains inconsistent, especially on major highways like I-57, I-55, and I-290.
Public Awareness and Safety Measures
The Illinois State Police are renewing their calls for motorists to practice caution, especially when traveling near crash sites, construction zones, or any scene with emergency lights activated.
“We continue to urge all drivers: if you see flashing lights ahead, slow down and move over. It’s not just the law — it’s about saving lives,” said an ISP spokesperson.
Here’s what Illinois drivers should know to avoid violating Scott’s Law:
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Move Over: If safe, switch lanes away from the emergency vehicle
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Slow Down: Significantly reduce speed if a lane change isn’t possible
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Stay Alert: Avoid distractions and be prepared to stop
A Reminder Ahead of Holiday Travel
The incident comes just ahead of July 4th travel, a period known for heavy highway traffic and increased DUI enforcement. Police agencies statewide will be conducting sobriety checkpoints and seatbelt enforcement campaigns throughout the holiday week.
The Illinois Department of Transportation is also collaborating with ISP to launch public service announcements reminding drivers of their responsibility to keep emergency responders safe.
Have you or someone you know been impacted by roadside crashes or Scott’s Law violations? Let us know in the comments — or visit ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com to explore more safety updates and community stories that matter to you.
