Gov. Tony Evers has ordered flags across Wisconsin to fly at half-staff on July 19 in remembrance of Wisconsin State Patrol Bureau Director David Pabst and his wife, Teri Pabst.
David and Teri, both 64 years old, died on July 7. They were killed by their 25-year-old son before he died by suicide after a standoff with police on July 8.
Evers called the couple “pillars of their community and dedicated public servants” in a July 17 statement. “Their tragic passing leaves a void in the hearts of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing and working alongside them over the years,” he said.
David served on the Wisconsin State Patrol for more than 38 years, including 25 of which were spent as a law enforcement officer. He was named director of the Bureau of Transportation Safety and Technical Services in 2013.
Teri was a lifelong educator, who most recently worked as a special education teacher for the Madison Metropolitan School District at Thoreau Elementary.
“On behalf of the state of Wisconsin, Kathy and I share our deepest condolences with David and Teri’s family, friends, colleagues, including the folks at the Wisconsin State Patrol, and all those who knew and loved them during what is a very difficult time,” Evers said. “Their memories and contributions to make Wisconsin a better and safer place for all who call our state home will not be forgotten.”
More: Daughters mourn deaths of state patrol bureau director, wife believed to be killed by adult son
Services for David and Teri Pabst are scheduled for July 19 in Middleton.
How long will flags be at half-staff in Wisconsin?
Flags across Wisconsin are ordered to fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on July 19, according to Evers’ executive order.
Where will flags be at half-staff in Wisconsin?
Per Evers’ executive order, American flag and the Wisconsin state flag fly half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the state of Wisconsin.
Why do flags fly at half-staff?
Flags are usually flown at half-staff after national tragedies or deaths of government officials, military members or other first responders. They may also be at half-staff for Memorial Day or other national days of remembrance, including 9/11, according to USA.gov.
“The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning,” USA.gov says. “The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff.”
David Clarey and Jack Albright contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are flags flying at half-staff in Wisconsin on July 19?