Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and upon all public buildings and grounds across the state of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff on Friday, August 5 to honor and remember Clare County Sheriff’s Deputy Nicole Shuff who tragically died on duty following injuries sustained as she was responding to a medical emergency while patrolling the Clare County Fairground as part of the Clare County Mounted Division. The flag-lowering will coincide with the date of her funeral.

“Sheriff’s Deputy Nichole Shuff was a dedicated public servant who served Michigan for years in the Clare County Sheriff’s Department,” said Governor Whitmer. “My thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time. As a former prosecutor, public safety is a top priority, and I will work with anyone to ensure our law enforcement officers have the resources they need to succeed."

Nichole Shuff was a volunteer deputy and served as member of the Clare County Mounted Division for two years. Nichole was born in Cadillac, MI on August 31, 1988, to parents Donald Paul and Melissa Marie (Crowder) Shuff. She leaves behind a husband, immediate family, and close friends.

Sheriff's Deputy Nichole Shuff passed away on Friday, July 29 at 33 years old.

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and service of fallen Sheriff’s Deputy Nichole Shuff by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.

Flags should be returned to full staff on Saturday, August 6, 2022.