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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND LEGACY OF ILLINOIS STATE TROOPER CLAY MATTHEW CARNS
WHEREAS, Illinois State Police Trooper and Orland Park Resident Clay Matthew Carns, Badge #6512, was tragically killed in the line of duty on December 23, 2024 at age 35, after he was struck by a vehicle while on duty cleaning up debris on Interstate 55; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Carns entered the ISP Academy on November 10, 2013 as part of Cadet Class 123, and graduated on May 2, 2014 having served 11 years at the time of his passing; and
WHEREAS, In 2022, Trooper Carns received the Violent Crime Expressway Ribbon for his work in helping combat gun violence and interstate shootings; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Carns was one of the 100 Club of Illinois 2024 Valor Award recipients; and
WHEREAS, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly said, "Every one of his fellow officers talks about what a great teammate he was, what a person of integrity he was, how trustworthy he was; and
WHEREAS, in police business, when you're dealing with very dangerous situations all the time, trust is critical; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Carns was a passionate public servant who will be remembered for his unparalleled dedication to his city, community, and state; and
WHEREAS, Clay Matthew Carns was the beloved husband of Meghan, devoted father of Gray and Ally, cherished son of Danny and Patti Carns, loving brother of Erica, Chad, and Elyssa Carns, adored grandson of Rosalie and the late Gerald Little and Robert and Sharon Kay Carns, the cherished uncle of many nieces and nephews and cousin to many; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Carns was described by his family as a treasured husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend, who became a hero when he was killed; and
WHEREAS, Trooper Carns' family takes comfort in knowing that he lived his life with purpose, he loved his family and friends fiercely, and he took great pride in his work; and
WHEREAS, Trooper...
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