Police Lt. dies after medical event

A State Police officer has died following a medical emergency.

Rich Kozik died while on duty in District 15 which includes the Downers Grove area. Authorities say Kozik was transported to a hospital. He served as the District 15 special operations lieutenant overseeing the motorcycle unit, truck enforcement unit and criminal patrol team. Funeral arrangements are pending.

“Rich was not only a great leader, but a personal friend,” recalled ISP Director Leo Schmitz. “Rich was a dedicated 19-year veteran who was respected and revered by many both inside and outside of our department.”

Kozik is being remembered for his dedication to State Police and living up to the motto of “integrity, service and pride.”