State police: Trooper hit, killed on I-294 near Northbrook

An Illinois State Police trooper was struck and killed on I-294 in Northbrook Saturday, officials said.

Christopher Lambert, 34, was hit by a vehicle headed north while investigating a three-car crash in the left lane near Willow Road around 4:45 p.m., Illinois State Police Director Leo Schmitz said at a news conference Saturday night.

An off-duty nurse administered CPR on the scene; Lambert was taken to NorthShore Glenbrook Hospital in Glenview, where he was pronounced dead at 7:24 p.m., Schmitz said.

"Trooper Lambert was a great trooper and was respected by those within and from outside the ISP," Schmitz said in a news release. "This is a tremendous loss which could have been prevented and should have never happened. ... He will be remembered for his dedication to the Illinois State Police and for giving the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve the citizens of Illinois."

Lambert, of Highland Park, was a member of Illinois State Police District 15 for five years and a United States Army veteran. He leaves behind a wife, a 1-year-old daughter and his parents, Schmitz said. Funeral arrangements are pending.

Lambert was on his way home when he was investigating the crash, Schmitz said, and the driver of the vehicle that struck him stopped. The crash is under investigation.