SPRINGFIELD — Illinois State Police director Leo P. Schmitz issued a statement Thursday announcing the death of a state trooper near Farmer City.

Trooper Ryan Albin was killed in a crash Wednesday at about 3:10 p.m. on Interstate 74 near Farmer City.  Albin sustained serious injuries from the crash and died at about 8:45 p.m. on Wednesday, according to the director’s report.

“Our hearts are heavy with grief as we mourn the loss of Trooper Albin,” stated Director Schmitz.  “I extend my deepest sympathy to Trooper Albin’s family, friends, and co-workers.  I pray that those who cared for and loved him find the strength they need during this most difficult time.  No further words can express the pain and loss we are all feeling.”

 Trooper Albin was 37 years old and lived in Bellflower, located northwest of Farmer City in McLean County.  He joined the Illinois State Police on January 8, 2006.  

Albin was assigned to District 6 in Pontiac as a canine officer.   Albin’s canine partner, “Biko,” was in the rear of the squad car at the time of the crash.  Biko was transported to a local veterinarian’s office and appears to have sustained only minor injuries.

 The crash remains under investigation. An autopsy was scheduled for Thursday, and an inquest may be held at a later date.  

No additional information was available at press time.  The death is being investigated by the Champaign County Coroner’s Office and the Illinois State Police, District 6.