Illinois State Police arrested 69-year-old John Fleet of Wilmington, IL for Scott’s Law (Class 4 Felony) after a fatal crash -- involving Trooper Clay M. Carns.

At a press conference, it was explained that Trooper Carns observed debris in a lane on southbound I-55 near Channahon at about 9:42 pm Monday, and he initiated his emergency lights, pulling over to the right shoulder. Trooper Carns exited his vehicle and was standing in the lane grabbing the debris when a pickup truck struck Trooper Carns. The driver of the pickup was identified as John Fleet.

Trooper Carns was taken to St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, where at approximately 10:45 p.m., he succumbed to his injuries. Fleet was not injured and remained on scene.

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, parents Patti and Danny Carns, and siblings Chad Carns, Erica (Carns) Raciack, and Elyssa Carns.

On December 24, 2024, the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office approved a Scott’s Law charge against Fleet. ISP also issued Fleet multiple Illinois Vehicle Code citations. These are not detainable offenses and Fleet was released.

94.1 WGFA