Deputy Clark was on patrol and stopped to investigate a vehicle near several pickup trucks off the roadway in a wooded area. There had been recent reports of vehicles being vandalized and thefts from within vehicles in the area.
Deputy Clark stopped a vehicle that had three occupants in it. The driver failed to produce any identification and he attempted to take him into custody. The suspect broke away from Deputy Clark and ran to a pickup truck, started it and ran over Deputy Clark throwing him several feet into the air.
As the suspect fled in the truck, Deputy Clark drew his duty weapon and shot at the suspect, however he missed. Deputy Clark was able to call for assistance and held the two remaining suspects at gunpoint until backup could arrive.
The Missouri State Police assisted the Sheriff’s Department in the search and a Trooper located the suspect and vehicle. The suspect rammed the Trooper’s patrol unit and a high speed pursuit followed.
The suspect fled down several country roads, abandoned the vehicle and continued to flee on foot. K-9 officers and SWAT teams also joined in the search as well as the U.S. Marshal’s Office as the suspect was wanted on a Federal Parole Detainer. The suspect driver was located several hours later and taken into custody without further incident.
Deputy Clark was transported to Mercy Memorial-Jefferson Hospital in serious condition. He was treated and released that night, however he returned the following day still complaining of pain. Additional testing showed that Deputy Clark’s back had been broken in the crash.
During months of recovery, Deputy Clark underwent back surgery and was recuperating at home. He was able to return to a limited duty function, serving civil process.
Deputy Clark had just had another back surgery days before and began to experience complications from his surgery. He collapsed and stopped breathing. An ambulance was called and emergency first aid and basic life support was provided to Deputy Clark, however he was pronounced dead at the hospital.