KC Reporter

Today, Governor Mike Parson directed that U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff on October 19, 2024, to honor the memory of St. Charles County Ambulance District Paramedic Michael R. Clarke. This gesture will take place at government buildings in St. Charles County and all emergency medical stations across Missouri.

Governor Parson expressed his condolences: “Paramedic Michael Clarke loved working as a paramedic, had compassion for the people he treated, and was honored earlier this year for saving the life of a patient in cardiac arrest.” He added, “He committed his life to serving the people of St. Charles County, but sadly died in the line of duty after two years of honorable service with the St. Charles County Ambulance District. Teresa and I send up our prayers for Paramedic Clarke’s parents, siblings, and all who loved him.”

Clarke began his career as a licensed paramedic on September 30, 2022, joining the St. Charles County Ambulance District shortly thereafter on November 11, 2022.

Tragically, Clarke did not respond to a call on October 11 and was found unresponsive by colleagues in an ambulance district bedroom. Despite efforts to resuscitate him and subsequent hospital care, he passed away at age 27.

Flags will remain at half-staff during Paramedic Clarke's interment ceremony.