Flags will be lowered to half mast on Friday and will remain so until Sunday as ordered by Alaska’s governor, Sean Parnell, who made the announcement on Monday.

The flags will be lowered to honor Sgt Patrick Johnson and Trooper Gabriel Rich, who were shot in the village of Tanana while responding to a call from that community’s VPSO for an assault incident. During the arrest process, the two troopers were shot in the back by the assault suspect’s son, Nathanial Kangas.

“The loss of Troopers Johnson and Rich is deeply felt by all who knew them, the communities they served, and our entire state,” Governor Parnell said. “We recognize the extraordinary courage and honor of our Alaska State Troopers, who make daily sacrifices to keep Alaskans safe. The ultimate sacrifice made by these heroes will never be forgotten. While their memory lives on, our prayers are with their families, friends, and colleagues during this most difficult time.”

The memorial service for Troopers Johnson and Rich will be held on Saturday in Fairbanks. State flags will be raised to full-staff on Monday.

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