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

It is with immense sadness and grief that St. Charles County Ambulance District [SCCAD] announces the line of duty death of Paramedic Michael Clarke (27), a two-year veteran of the department.

Shortly before 7 a.m. this morning, the advanced life support unit on which Paramedic Clarke was working was assigned to a 911 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 (200 McMenamy Road, St. Peters) 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 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 our team, Clarke completed his Emergency Medical Technician [EMT] and Paramedic coursework here at SCCAD.

Arrangements for Paramedic Clarke are pending at this time and will be communicated per the family’s wishes. Our Paramedic Association, Honor Guard and leadership team will work closely with his loved ones to be of service as they navigate this loss.