Local ISP Trooper oversaw Indy 500 communications

(INDIANAPOLIS) -- A local Indiana State Police trooper had a front row seat at the Indy 500 on Sunday.

On most days, Sgt. Stephen Wheeles can be found near the worst crime scenes or traffic accidents that occur in Southeast Indiana. 

On Sunday, Wheeles was serving as the Public Information Officer for the entire Indiana State Police at the Indy 500.

He spent the past week among the troopers who prepared for the worst things that could go wrong at the Indy 500, whether that be a terrorist attack, a grandstand problem or some other issue. 

Sgt. Wheeles says the ISP was prepared for it all. 

“The Indy 500 is an event like no other sporting event anywhere in the world. There is nothing to compare to an event of this magnitude,” Wheeles said.

The race winner, Felix Rosenqvist, has always shown support to the Indiana State Police and is one racer that Sgt. Wheeles has gotten to know personally.

“I’ve gotten to know Felix and his team over the past two seasons. It was thrilling to witness Felix becoming an Indy 500 champion with the Indiana State Police riding along with him,” Sgt. Wheeles said. 

He added, "Felix and his team are great people and it was just unbelievable to see them make it to victory lane in the closest Indy 500 margin in history."

Have you ever considered becoming an Indiana State Trooper? Being at the Indy 500 could be your job one day. Click here if you want to serve your community in a bigger way.