Gov. Branstad orders flags at half-staff to honor fallen Des Moines Police Officers
Updated, Tuesday, March 29, 2016
(DES MOINES) – Gov. Terry Branstad has ordered all flags in Iowa be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, March 30, 2016 and sunrise to sunset on Friday, April 1, to honor Des Moines Police Officers Susan Farrell and Carlos Puente-Morales, who were killed in the line of duty in the early morning hours of March 26. Officer Farrell will be laid to rest on Wednesday, March 30 and Officer Puente-Morales, Friday, April 1.
The governor’s directive applies to all U.S. and state flags under the control of the state. Flags will be at half-staff on the state Capitol building and on flag displays in the Capitol complex, and upon all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect.
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Branstad, Reynolds issue statements on early morning vehicle crash on Interstate 80
(DES MOINES) – Today, Saturday, March 26, 2016, Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds released the following statements after an early morning vehicle crash on Interstate 80 involving two Des Moines police officers:
“Our hearts are heavy this Easter weekend on the news of an early morning crash on Interstate 80,” said Branstad. “We’re learning that the crash took the lives of two young Des Moines police officers who dedicated their lives to protecting public safety and were killed in the line of duty. Chris and I wish to extend our sincere sympathies to the families of everyone impacted in this horrific accident.”
Lt. Gov. Reynolds added, “I’m heartbroken to hear this morning of a tragic vehicle crash involving two fallen police officers from the Des Moines Police Department. On this celebration of Easter, it’s very difficult to comprehend how young lives can be taken so quickly. Kevin and I wish to extend our thoughts and prayers to all of the families affected by this terrible crash.”
Gov. Branstad will issue a statement later in the week on lowering flags to half-staff.
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