Off-duty Elgin police officer killed in motorcycle crash with deer

A motorcyclist killed in a crash with a deer late Tuesday in DeKalb County has been identified as a 27-year veteran of the Elgin Police Department.

Off-duty Ofcr. James E. Willson, 51, was riding his Harley Davidson northbound on Five Points Road near Old State Road in unincorporated Sycamore when he struck a deer and crashed about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, according to the DeKalb County sheriff’s office.

The Kingston resident was taken to Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, where he was pronounced dead, a statement from the sheriff’s office said. He was wearing a helmet at the time the crash and speed was not a factor, authorities said.

Wilson died of heart failure, Elgin police said in a statement.

“The men and women of the police department, and the City of Elgin, will miss Jim more than simple words can express,” a statement from the department said. “His compassion, humor, professionalism, and dedication have touched hundreds of people over the years and will always be remembered.”

The deer was also killed in the accident.

Over his 27 years with the department, Wilson received two unit commendations and one award for distinguished service, police said. He served in the U.S. Army from 1985-87 before joining the department.

Services are scheduled for Saturday at the Wait-Ross-Allanson Funeral Home at 51 Center St. in Elgin. Visitation will be from 3-6 p.m. with a memorial service to follow.