Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has ordered the Texas flag be flown at half-staff in Texas after five police officers were gunned down in Dallas in an ambush assault Thursday night. Soon after, President Barack Obama ordered that all U.S. flags also be flown at half-staff.
The fatal shootings took place when someone opened fire at the end of a peaceful protest over nationwide officer-involved shootings.
Patrick, acting as governor in the absence of traveling Gov. Greg Abbott, said he was "directing that the Texas flag be immediately lowered to half-staff in honor of the lives and public service of our slain officers and victims of yesterday's tragic and senseless event."
Patrick sent the following letter to Commander Jose Ortiz with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Dear Commander Ortiz,
Texas has sustained a deliberate and dreadful attack against law enforcement in Dallas. The people of Texas revere the men and women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to protect and serve their communities. As such, it is fitting that flags should be lowered to half-staff in memory of these dedicated and brave Texas law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty protecting others.
As such, pursuant to Chapter 3100 of the Texas Government Code, I direct that the Texas flag be
immediately lowered statewide on Friday, July 8, 2016, in honor of the lives and public service of these slain officers. Flags should remain at half-staff through sunset on Tuesday, July 12, 2016. Flags should be returned to full-staff on the following day.
Individuals, businesses, municipalities, counties and other political subdivisions and entities are encouraged to fly their flags at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of honor and respect for these fallen public servants.
I extend prayers of comfort to the survivors of the shooting and to the families of the slain officers and will keep them in my thoughts and prayers.
Respectfully,
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick
