GALESBURG – State Senator Mike Halpin and Representative Dan Swanson are honoring the life of Deputy Sheriff Nick Weist – who died in the line of duty – by passing a measure to memorialize parts of a Galesburg highway.

“Honoring the life of Deputy Nick Weist is a way to show our gratitude and respect for his sacrifice,” said Senator Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This memorial highway will serve as a constant reminder that speaks to his selflessness, and demonstrates we will not forget his sacrifice in serving and protecting the community.”

Knox County Deputy Weist lost his life on April 29, 2022 when he was struck and killed by a vehicle as he deployed spike strips during a vehicle pursuit of an armed subject. Deputy Weist had served with the Knox County Sheriff's Office for four years and previously served with the Mercer County Sheriff's Department and Aledo Police Department. He is survived by his wife, two children, mother, father, and sister.

A section of U.S. Route 150 from Galesburg to Alpha will be designated as the “Deputy Sheriff Nick Weist Memorial Highway” thanks to bipartisan efforts from Halpin and Swanson.

“It is with great honor and humbleness that we can recognize Deputy Weist’s sacrifices for his community and his county,” said Representative Dan Swanson (R-Alpha). “Designating in his honor the stretch of highway where he gave his life protecting the community is a small way of ensuring that we never forget his service and his sacrifice.”

The Illinois Senate approved House Joint Resolution 17 with bipartisan support.