Illinois State Trooper Clay Carns, 35, tragically lost his life on Monday night in Will County while working to keep others safe. The accident occurred on the very day designated as “Scott’s Law Day,” a statewide reminder for drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles on the road.
The incident happened just before 10 p.m. as Trooper Carns, a husband and father of two young children, was clearing debris from the southbound lanes of I-55 near Channahon. He was struck by a vehicle driven by 69-year-old John Fleet of Wilmington. Carns was rushed to St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, where he was pronounced dead about an hour later.
Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly expressed the profound grief felt by the department. “Our trooper was out there trying to make sure more people didn’t get hurt,” Kelly said. “But today, being Christmas Eve, it hurts in a very particular way.”
John Fleet was arrested and charged with violating Scott’s Law, which mandates that drivers reduce speed and change lanes when approaching stopped emergency vehicles. This year alone, Illinois has seen 26 crashes related to Scott’s Law, resulting in 12 injuries and now one fatality. This marks an increase from last year’s 21 crashes and seven injuries.
Illinois State Police Captain Patrick Manno highlighted the importance of enforcing Scott’s Law to prevent further tragedies. “The troopers in this area have been deeply affected,” he said. “We are more focused than ever on ensuring that these laws are followed to protect lives.”
Trooper Carns’ death serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers and the critical need for drivers to exercise caution on the roads.
