SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Aug. 5, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) — Gov. Gary R. Herbert has ordered flags across the state of Utah to be lowered until sunset on Thursday in honor of the victims of the shootings in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio.
In coordination with a proclamation issued by President Donald J. Trump, this flag order is effective immediately, said a news release from the Governor’s office.
Herbert issued the following statement: “Our hearts are heavy as we reflect on the hateful and cruel violence that rocked our nation this weekend. As Utahns, we grieve with all those who have lost loved ones in these senseless and vile shootings, and we pray for the recovery of the wounded.”
Flags will be flown at half-staff at all state facilities and public grounds from sunrise until sunset until Thursday. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time.
In El Paso, Texas, 20 people were killed and 26 people were injured Saturday after a 21-year-old gunman opened fire in a Walmart store.
Just 13 hours later, in Dayton, Ohio, 24-year-old Connor Betts shot and killed his sister and eight other people. At least 27 people were injured in the shooting.
