Plans for the funeral services and visitation for a state trooper that was killed in an accident last week while on duty have been announced.
In a statement, the family of Clay Carns said they “mourn the loss of their treasured husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend” and that he has always been a hero to them even before his death.
“Our world has been shattered, and we will never be the same,” the statement went on. “But we take comfort in knowing that he lived his life with such purpose, he loved his family and friends fiercely, and he took great pride in his work.”
Carns was outside of his squad car removing debris from a lane on I-55 north of Blodgett Road near Channahon on December 23, when he was struck by a pickup truck. Carns was taken to St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, where he succumbed to his injuries.
He was 35 years old and served 11 years as an officer with Illinois State Police. He is survived by his wife Meghan, children Gray and Ally, and parents Patty and Danny Carns.
Police said John Fleet of Wilmington was driving the pickup truck. He was arrested and charged with violating Scott’s Law, which requires drivers to move over when a vehicle with emergency or hazard lights is activated.
Services will all be held at Parkview Christian Church, 11100 Orland Parkway in Orland Park. Visitation to take place January 2, 2025, from 1-8 p.m., with a first responder walk through at 6 p.m. Funeral service will be January 3, 2025 at 10 a.m.