On Friday, November 22, 2024, I directed flags be flown at half-staff to honor Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph Waller who were killed in a horrific car crash. A third officer injured in the crash, Deputy Sheriff Ignacio Diaz, tragically succumbed to his injuries on Monday, November 25, 2024. Diaz honorably served the citizens of Palm Beach County since joining the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office in 2004. He will be remembered as a hero who served nobly and protected his community. My direction to lower the flags of the United States and the State of Florida in Palm Beach County, from sunrise to sunset, on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, will now be amended to also honor Deputy Sheriff Ignacio Diaz.

On Thursday, November 21, 2024, Corporal Luis Paez and Deputy Sheriff Ralph Waller tragically died in a horrific car crash. Corporal Paez began serving his community in 1988 as a Corrections Deputy before honorably serving as a Motor Deputy for more than 20 years. Deputy Sheriff Waller served with the Royal Palm Beach Police Department before starting at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office in 2008. These brave officers who made the ultimate sacrifice will always be remembered for their courage and service.

As a mark of respect, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout Palm Beach County from 3:00 p.m. to sunset, today, Friday, November 22, 2024, and from sunrise to sunset, on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.