Supporting the Family of Fallen Trooper Clay Carns
Illinois State Police Rally Around Loved Ones
Remembering Trooper Clay Carns
Illinois State Police are rallying around the family of one of their own, with the creation of a fundraiser in support of the family of fallen Trooper Clay Carns. Carns, 35, tragically lost his life just two days before Christmas after being struck by a vehicle while clearing debris from a roadway near Channahon. The Orland Park man was a beloved husband to Meghan, and a devoted father to a son, 3, and daughter, 2.
“Trooper Carns’ joy was in his little family,” wrote GoFundMe organizer and fellow trooper Robert Pagliaro. “His wife Meghan was truly the love of his life.” Carns was hit just before 10 p.m. After spotting debris in a lane on southbound I-55 just north of Blodgett Road near Channahon, he had turned on his emergency lights, pulling over to the right shoulder. He got out of his vehicle and was standing in the lane grabbing the debris when he was struck by a Chevrolet Silverado driven by John Fleet, 69, of Wilmington, police have said.
Fleet is now charged with a violation of Scott’s Law, or the “move over” law, a class 4 felony. Trooper Carns was taken to St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, where he died of his injuries an hour later. Orland Park Mayor Keith Pekau on Christmas Eve honored Carns’ memory, noting that Carns was one of the 100 Club of Illinois 2024 Valor Award recipients.
The award is presented annually to police officers, firefighters and paramedics who, by their actions, performed above and beyond the call of duty and in the highest traditions of their respective departments, according to the 100 Club of Illinois’ website. “Trooper Carns was an asset to the Illinois State Police and will be deeply missed,” Pekau said in a release.
“On behalf of myself and the Village Board, we express our sincere condolences to the Carns family. The community mourns alongside you today.” An official GoFundMe campaign has been organized by Carns’ colleagues through the Got Your 6 Foundation. It is the only family-endorsed fundraising effort.
The Got Your 6 Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit run by an Illinois State Police trooper, in support of officers and families within the agency. “He took great delight in raising his children,” Pagliaro said in the fundraiser. “He loved taking his children on adventures and making projects with them. His son was Trooper Carns’ ‘mini-me’ and was by his side always. His daughter was his fun; he was always documenting her hilarious antics.”
The GoFundMe campaign seeks to raise $250,000 in support of Carns’ children. “While we will NEVER be able to replace the man Clay is,” Pagliaro wrote, “we can help ensure that his children’s future is secure.” A colleague remembered Carns as “a selfless and an effortlessly friendly person. “If he could help, he would. If he couldn’t, he would find someone who could.”
Now it’s our turn to give back to his family.
How This Will Affect Me
The tragic loss of Trooper Clay Carns serves as a reminder of the risks that first responders face each day in their line of duty. As a member of the community, it is important to support fundraisers and initiatives that help provide for the families of fallen heroes like Trooper Carns. By coming together and showing our support, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those left behind.
How This Will Affect the World
The story of Trooper Clay Carns is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers worldwide. By raising awareness and supporting fundraisers like the one organized for Carns’ family, we can honor the memory of those who have given their lives in service to their communities. Together, we can make a difference in the world by showing compassion and support for the families of fallen heroes.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Trooper Clay Carns, let us remember his dedication to his family and his service to the community. By standing together and supporting fundraisers like the one organized for his family, we can help ensure that his children have a secure future. Let us honor his memory by coming together in unity and showing our appreciation for the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers like Trooper Carns.
