East Central Reporter

State Representative Adam Niemerg has spearheaded the passing of House Resolution 102 in the Illinois House to commemorate the life and service of the late Illinois State Trooper Corey Steven Thompsen. Trooper Thompsen, originally from rural St. Joseph, passed away in the line of duty on October 18, 2024. The resolution was passed with the attendance of Thompsen's family, friends, and former colleagues.

State Senator Chapin Rose joined Niemerg on the House Floor for the passing of the resolution. Niemerg spoke about the loss: “It is never easy to lose a public servant like Trooper Thompsen, especially at such a young age and so early in his career with the Illinois State Police. Trooper Thompsen impacted many lives while in uniform and out. He is deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.”

Trooper Thompsen was 28 years old and had dedicated almost five years to his role as an officer with the Illinois State Police. He is survived by his wife Chelsea, his parents Susan and Steve, and his brothers. Raised in St. Joseph, Champaign County, Thompsen was a 2014 graduate of St. Joseph-Ogden High School and a cross country and track athlete.

Thompsen obtained a criminal justice degree from Danville Area Community College, pursued further education at Western Illinois University, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Indiana State University in 2018. He married Chelsea Blaase on June 2, 2024, in Tennessee.

Throughout his career, Trooper Thompsen was an active member of the Fraternal Order of Police Troopers Lodge 41, and held associations with the national criminal justice society Alpha Phi Sigma and the honor society Phi Theta Kappa. He was known as a family man, reliable colleague, and friend to many within his community and profession.

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