State Police offer some advice if you find yourself stuck in traffic similar to what happened Tuesday on I-74. Officers say don’t get out of your vehicles.

That might be easier said than done because some of the motorists were stranded for more than two-hours between Carlock and Mitsubishi Motorway after police chased down an armed Peoria County domestic violence suspect, who then allegedly committed suicide in his pick-up truck. 

Restless people passed the time by getting out of their cars and trucks, chatting to other motorists, or taking a walk.  Trooper Ross Green says that’s not the safest idea.

“Stay within your vehicles. Even though it appears to be a lot longer than what they’re wanting to wait, I would have them stay within their vehicles,” Green said.

A long traffic tie-up had already developed by the time State Police redirected traffic off of eastbound I-74 at the Carlock exit. 

Green said police try to get the word out as quickly as possible so motorists don’t get stuck. It’s also a good idea to monitor the radio or social media. 

This story was submitted to us by WJBC’s Howard Packowitz.