Preserved evidence
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Publication: 2026-10-09 · Retrieved: Oct 25, 2026 13:15 PDT
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR EXECUTIVE ORDER #305 Relating to a Proclamation that the Flag of the United States and the Flag of the State of Wisconsin Be Flown at Half-Staff as a Mark of Respect for Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Ritger WHEREAS, on October 2, 2026, Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Ritger succumbed to injuries sustained while responding to a traffic pursuit that occurred on September 21, 2026, in Dunn County, Wisconsin, tragically losing his life in the line of duty at the age of 29; WHEREAS, Trooper Ritger proudly served the state of Wisconsin for nearly eight years, including three years with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and the past five years with the Wisconsin State Patrol, where he was assigned to the Northwest Region, primarily working in Dunn County; WHEREAS, a member of the Wisconsin State Patrol’s 67th Recruit Class, Trooper Ritger attained certifications as a general law enforcement instructor, mobile field force team member and squad leader, and salvage vehicle inspector; WHEREAS, Trooper Ritger was a dedicated public servant whose strong work ethic and positive presence left a lasting impact on anyone who had the privilege of knowing him; WHEREAS, Trooper Ritger approached every situation with professionalism, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving others, whether assisting the public, supporting his fellow state troopers, or taking on difficult challenges, consistently demonstrating compassion and a willingness to help wherever needed; WHEREAS, Trooper Ritger’s dedication to his family and unwavering commitment to his profession and to protecting the people of Wisconsin will never be forgotten; WHEREAS, the people of Wisconsin join Trooper Ritger’s family, friends, loved ones, and colleagues in mourning his tragic passing; and WHEREAS, services for Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Ritger will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. NOW, THEREFORE, I, TONY EVERS, Governor of the State of Wisconsin, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the Laws of the State, hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of the State of Wisconsin shall be flown at half-staff at all buildings, grounds, and military installations of the State of Wisconsin, beginning at sunrise on Saturday, October 10, 2026, and ending at sunset on that date. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great seal of the State of Wisconsin to be affixed. Done at the Capitol in the City of Madison this eighth day of October in the year of two thousand ae pr teed TONY EVERS Governor