St. Charles County Ambulance District Announces Line of Duty Death of Paramedic Michael Clarke

PRESS RELEASE

ST. PETERS, MO—It is with immense sadness and grief that St. Charles County Ambulance District (SCCAD) announces October 14, 2024, the line of duty death of paramedic Michael Clarke, 27, a two-year veteran of the department.

Shortly before 7 a.m. Oct. 14, the ALS unit on which Clarke was working was assigned to a 9-1-1 call. When Clarke did not report from the station to the ambulance to leave for the call, his partner found him unresponsive in one of the station’s bedrooms.

Clarke’s partner and other paramedics at Station 12 immediately initiated CPR and other lifesaving measures, which were continued at Barnes St. Peters Hospital following transport. Despite their valiant efforts, he did not survive.

Clarke joined the team at SCCAD in November 2022, working on the district’s Surge Division and later B-Platoon. He was known for his affable nature and brought a positive energy to the station for every shift. Earlier this year, Clarke and two colleagues were recognized by a patient and the SCCAD Board of Directors for their lifesaving efforts at the scene of the gentleman’s January 5, 2024 cardiac arrest.

“Michael embodied each of our values, but perhaps none more so than compassion—his kindness put patients at ease and earned him respect among colleagues and community health partners. This loss is profound, and we appreciate the support of our community during this difficult time,” said SCCAD Chief Kelly Cope.

Like many members of the team, Clarke completed his EMT and paramedic coursework at SCCAD.

Arrangements are pending at this time and will be communicated per the family’s wishes. Please direct inquiries to SCCAD.