Mason Introduces Resolution Honoring Late Illinois State Trooper Gerald Ellis

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, introduced House Joint Resolution 59 to commemorate the life of late Illinois State Trooper Gerald Ellis. Ellis was on duty when he was struck by a wrong-way driver on March 30.  Ellis was driving to his home in Antioch when the fatal collision occurred on Interstate 94. The 36 year-old state trooper is survived by his wife and two daughters.

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Trooper Ellis,” said Mason. “My thoughts immediately went to his family; I wanted to find a way to let them know Trooper Ellis will always be remembered and respected by his community.”

Mason’s House Joint Resolution 59 asks the Illinois General Assembly to name the portion of Interstate 94 where Ellis was killed as Trooper Gerald W. Ellis Memorial Highway. The measure also requests that the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority post public signage naming that same stretch of road as Trooper Gerald W. Ellis Memorial Highway.

“As I attended Trooper Ellis’ funeral, and later watched countless law enforcement vehicles proceed through the district in Ellis’ honor, my heart ached. I felt so humbled to see such a massive outpouring of love and respect for a single individual,” said Mason. “Ellis served his community with his life. I hope this legislation will be just one of many steps taken to permanently honor the life and legacy of Trooper Ellis.”