WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderHouse passes law inspired by deadly crash involving police

House passes law inspired by deadly crash involving police

SPRINGFIELD (WREX) - The Illinois House has passed a bill inspired by a deadly car accident involving a speeding police officer.

The bill, known as the "Bachman's Law", passed with overwhelming support.

State Representative Ron Wait (R-Belvidere) sponsored the bill, calling it common sense legislation that will protect citizens and law enforcement officers. "I am very pleased to see such strong support for Bachman's Law," said Wait.  "The bill still has to go through the Senate, but I am confident we can move forward and pass this into law."

The bill was drawn up after a fatal crash involving a police officer claimed the lives of Aaron Bachman, 21, and D.J. Bachman, 15.

The law would require police officers to use their lights and sirens whenever they go faster than the speed limit on their way to a call. Current state law does not require officers to do so.

In the 2006 crash that killed Aaron and D.J. Bachman, their vehicle was hit by Winnebago Sheriff's Deputy Joseph Boomer who was on his way to a domestic disturbance call. During the trial, prosecutors said Boomer was going more than 100 miles per hour. On the stand, Boomer testified he didn't have his emergency lights or sirens on when the crash happened. The jury in that case found Boomer not guilty.