Gov. Andy Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Friday, Nov. 8, in honor of a game warden recruit who died during training activities Nov. 1.

According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Game Warden William “Tex” Bailey, 24, of Richmond suffered a medical emergency during a training exercise in Barren County. He was transported to T.J. Samson Community Hospital in Glasgow, where he was pronounced dead.

“I was saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Game Warden Tex Bailey,” said Gov. Beshear. “Britainy and I extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones, as well as the entire Department of Fish and Wildlife.”

Originally from Alabama, Bailey attended Eastern Kentucky University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and played football. After an extensive interview process, he began training to become a game warden with the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement Division on Oct. 14, 2024.

A memorial service will be held in Huntsville, Alabama, Friday at Madison Academy, a private, co-educational school that Bailey attended.

Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses and organizations throughout the commonwealth to join in this tribute.