State Trooper Dies After Being Hit By Vehicle On I-55

CHANNAHON, IL — The Illinois State Police issued an announcement on Christmas Eve that State Trooper Clay Carns died overnight as a result of being hit by a vehicle on Interstate 55 near Channahon.

According to state police, at 9:42 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 23, Trooper Carns was outside his squad car removing debris from a lane on southbound I-55 north of Blodgett Road near Channahon when he was struck by a passing vehicle.

Trooper Carns was taken to St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, where at approximate 10:45 p.m., he succumbed to his injuries. The crash is still under investigation and additional information is not available at this time.

“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,” said ISP Director Brenden F. Kelly. “Please keep Trooper Carns, his family, loved ones, and his ISP family in your thoughts, prayers, and hearts during this most difficult time.”

Trooper Carns was 35 years old and served 11 years as an officer with ISP. He was assigned to Troop 3. He is survived by his wife Meghan, children Gray and Ally, and parents Patty and Danny Carns, llinois State Police said.

Southbound Interstate 55 was shut down as emergency crews responded to an incident south of the Bluff Road exit late Monday.

As of 10:40 p.m., traffic was backed to around Route 6 and emergency vehicles continued to rush to the scene.

Early Tuesday morning, area police departments shared their condolences with the Illinois State Police and with Carns' family.

"Our hearts break for the family and friends of Trooper Clay Carns," Shorewood police posted on social media. "A senseless tragedy while Trooper Carns was clearing debris from I-55 trying to keep the interstate safe for others. Rest in peace, Trooper. May his memory be eternal."

Joliet police also said the department was saddened to learn of the death of Carns, "who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty." The department's statement went on to say, "Last night, Chief (Bill) Evans, members of his administration, and many of our officers responded to the hospital to offer our support and solidarity to the Illinois State Police and Trooper Carns’ loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Please join us in keeping Trooper Carns’ family, friends, and the Illinois State Police in your thoughts and prayers."

CBS Channel 2 in Chicago reported that the driver who killed Trooper Carns has been taken into custody. That driver's name has not been identified by the police so far.