Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today directed flags to half-staff on all State government buildings in memory and honor of New York Police Department Detective Brian Simonsen, who was shot and killed yesterday responding to a robbery in Queens. Detective Simonsen was a resident of Calverton and served with the NYPD for 19 years. Flags will be flown at half-staff from Thursday, February 14 until interment.

"I am deeply saddened by the shooting of NYPD Detective Brian Simonsen," Governor Cuomo said. "This tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks the brave men and women in law enforcement face every day to keep us safe. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I offer my deepest sympathies to Detective Simonsen's loved ones and fellow members of the NYPD."