Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #305 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Sat., Oct. 10, 2026, as a mark of respect for Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Ritger, who lost his life due to injuries sustained in the line of duty on Oct. 2, 2026.

“Our hearts break for Trooper Ritger and his family. He was already leading a life of public service and dedication to our state, and our state workers join his coworkers and colleagues, friends, and loved ones in mourning his passing. This was a young life lost far too soon,” said Gov. Evers in a statement released at the time of Trooper Ritger’s passing. “Kathy and I are praying for Trooper Ritger’s family and will continue to keep them, his colleagues at the Wisconsin State Patrol and the Department of Corrections, and all those who know and love Trooper Ritger in our hearts and our thoughts in the difficult days ahead.”

Services for Trooper Ritger will be held on Sat., Oct. 10, 2026. Executive Order #305 will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on Sat., Oct. 10, 2026.