JOLIET, IL. (THECOUNT) — In a heart-wrenching incident just two days before Christmas, Illinois State Trooper Clay Carns was fatally struck by a vehicle driven by John Fleet while performing his duties on the highway. This tragic event led to the arrest of Fleet, a 69-year-old from Wilmington, Illinois.
The incident unfolded on December 23 at around 9:42 p.m. when Trooper Carns was outside his squad car, working to remove debris from the southbound lanes of Interstate 55, just north of Blodgett Road near Channahon. While engaged in this act of public service, he was struck by a passing vehicle. Emergency services rushed him to St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, where he succumbed to his injuries at 10:45 p.m.
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Following the crash, the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1 took action, arresting Fleet. Fleet has been charged with a Class 4 Felony under Scott’s Law, which mandates drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles with active lights. Fleet remained at the scene after the collision.
ISP Director Brendan Kelly expressed the profound grief felt by the entire Illinois State Police community, stating, “This is a sad day for the Illinois State Police as we mourn the death of Trooper Clay M. Carns who was killed while serving the people of Illinois and working to keep our roadways safe. Please keep Trooper Carns, his family, loved ones, and his ISP family in your thoughts, prayers, and hearts during this most difficult time.”
Trooper Clay Carns, at the age of 35, had served with the Illinois State Police for 11 years and was assigned to Troop 3. He leaves behind his wife, Meghan, their children, Gray and Ally, and his parents, Patty and Danny Carns. This tragedy has cast a somber shadow over the holiday season, highlighting the dangers faced by those who protect our roads and the importance of road safety laws like Scott’s Law.
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