The Windsor Police Department is mourning the loss of a police officer who died while off duty on Friday.
“It is with deep sadness that the Windsor Police Department confirms the passing of Officer Louis Clayton, who died off duty late last week,” Captain Andrew Power said in a statement released on Sunday. “Officer Clayton served with dedication and honor, and this loss has profoundly affected our department and community.”
According a GoFundMe launched by the Windsor Police Union, Clayton joined the Windsor Police Department in September 2021 after serving in the U.S. Army.
“Louis was admired and respected by all who worked with him,” the GoFundMe said. “He was best known for his sense of humor and as being a friend to everyone who ever met him.”
Clayton was a father of two daughters, ages 3 and 2 years old. He is also survived by his mother, father, sister, two nephews and long-time girlfriend, according to the GoFundMe.
“We are asking for support for Louis’ family during this difficult time,” the GoFundMe said. “Funds will be going toward unexpected funeral arrangements, added expenses for his family and future educational expenses for his two daughters.
The GoFundMe has reached almost $30,000 by Sunday afternoon.
Funeral arrangements are pending, according to Clayton.
“The Windsor Police Department will be providing resources and support to our officers as we grieve the loss of our colleague and friend,” Clayton said. “We thank the community for its understanding, compassion and respect for Officer Clayton’s family’s wishes for privacy.
Local and state police departments throughout Connecticut sent well-wishes to the family and friends of Clayton.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Windsor Police Department and to the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officer. The loss of a team member impacts all of us, both personally and professionally,” said the East Windsor Police Department in a Facebook post. “To our brothers and sisters in blue, remember to lean on each other during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
“Troop C extends our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the Windsor Police Department,” said Connecticut State Police Troop C in Tolland. “Our thoughts are with Officer Clayton’s family, friends, and brothers and sisters in blue during this difficult time.”
To support Clayton’s family, Because of the Brave nonprofit organization said all proceeds from its United and Strong Blue Line T-shirts will benefit the Windsor Police Union’s fund throughout November.
“These funds will help cover unexpected funeral costs, provide immediate support to his family and help secure future educational expenses for his daughters,” the organization said in a social media post on Sunday.
The circumstances and cause of Clayton’s death are unknown at this time.
