Carroll County Lineman Dies During Severe Weather Outbreak

CLARKSBURG (April 3, 2025) — A Carroll County Electric lineman died in the line of duty in the early morning hours on Thursday during a severe weather outbreak that spanned multiple states and spawned deadly tornadoes and flooding.

Chance Carlton, 32, of Huntingdon was working in the Clarksburg area when the truck he and another lineman were in left the roadway on Purdy Road at Roan Creek. 

Carroll County Electric General Manager Ryan Drewry provided this statement regarding the tragedy, “There are no words to express the depth of sadness blanketing Carroll County Electric with the tragic loss of Chance Carlton. The outpouring of genuine compassion from the community, and so many others, has been much needed on such an unimaginable and devastating day. I would encourage all to share this compassion directly to the family of Chance Carlton by sending donations to the Chance Carlton Memorial Fund at any Carroll Bank & Trust location.”

Carroll County Mayor Joseph Butler echoed this sentiment, “We are truly heartbroken in the passing of Carroll County's own, Chance Carlton. Chance was a Godly and dedicated husband, father, son, brother, colleague, and friend. A true public servant, his passing occurring early this morning [April 3] while in service to our community as part of the Carroll County Electric Department. We pray today for a grieving family, a special work family, and community. I am thankful for the Lord's promise that He is with us when we are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18).”

Gibson County Electric Department offered their condolences, “We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Chance Carlton, a dedicated lineworker with the Carroll County Electric Department, who lost his life during last night's storms. Lineworkers like Chance risk their lives daily to ensure that our communities have the power we depend on. During this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Chance's family, friends and colleagues. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the Carlton family and the Carroll County Electric Department.”

Many area electric departments and organizations have expressed their condolences. 

The Huntingdon Mustangs Quarterback Club said, “My heart is broken for the family of Chance Carlton. Chance was a former Mustang Running back for the class of 2011. Let us lift up his family and the CCED up in prayer.”

Carlton leaves behind a wife, Samantha, and two young children. He was a talented singer and musician. 

According to Kelly Green of Premier Realty (formerly 100.9 The Farm radio station), “He was a great young man and this is an absolute tragedy. Chance was our first Farmerican Idol winner and the first person to ever perform on our Barn Bash at the radio station in Huntingdon.”

Carlton loved horseback riding, music, and his community among many other things. 

A memorial fund has been established at Carroll Bank & Trust in Chance Carlton’s name. Donations can be made at any Carroll Bank & Trust location.

Update: If you live out of the area, but wish to donate to the memorial fund, Carroll Bank & Trust provided this guidance: Interested parties can reach out to Carroll Bank & Trust directly, 731-986-4401, and they will help you with your donation or you can mail a check to the P.O. Box. 

Funeral arrangements for Carlton are incomplete at this time. Chase Funeral Home has charge of the arrangements.  https://www.chasefh.com/obituary/chance-carlton

Editor’s note: This is a developing story partially pieced together from the social media posts of those who knew and loved him. Please continue to keep his family and friends in your prayers.