Flag Status Alert: United States Flag and Maryland Flag will Return to Full-Staff

The United States Flag and Maryland State Flag shall be raised to full-staff at sunset tomorrow, Wednesday, February 2, 2022, the day of interment for Lieutenant Paul Butrim, Firefighter/Paramedic Kelsey Sadler, and EMT/Firefighter Kenny Lacayo of the Baltimore City Fire Department, each of whom died in the line of duty on January 24, 2022.

This is to advise that Governor Larry Hogan ordered the United States Flag and Maryland Flag be lowered to half-staff effective immediately and returned to full-staff at sunset on the day of the last interment (date unknown).

This action is in honor of Lieutenant Paul Butrim, Firefighter/Paramedic Kelsey Sadler, and EMT/Firefighter Kenny Lacayo of the Baltimore City Fire Department, each of whom died in the line of duty on January 24, 2022.

“Our hearts are broken for the entire Baltimore City Fire Department as three of our bravest have fallen in the line of duty. A fourth firefighter was critically injured and is on life support. Each and every day, our firefighters and first responders answer the call and are ready to run into danger—this is our worst nightmare.

“This morning, I spoke to both Mayor Scott and Chief Ford, and at my direction, the State Fire Marshal and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management continue to provide assistance to the city.

“Effective immediately, I have ordered flags lowered to half-staff in remembrance of these fallen heroes. I call on all Marylanders to honor the memories of these brave souls, and pray for their families and fellow firefighters.”