Wisconsin flags to fly at half-staff Saturday in honor of Trooper Bradley Ritger
iStock / Eachat WISCONSIN (CBS 58) — Gov. Tony Evers has ordered the flags of the United States and Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff Saturday in honor of Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Ritger, who died after being injured in the line of duty.
Executive Order No. 305 will be in effect from sunrise to sunset Saturday, Oct. 10, the same day funeral services are scheduled for Ritger.
“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,” Evers said. “This was a young life lost far too soon.”
Ritger, 29, died Oct. 2 from injuries he suffered while responding to a traffic pursuit Sept. 21.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Ritger deployed a tire deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County-Eau Claire County line. As he moved to a position of cover, he fell from the bridge onto the roadway below. He later died despite lifesaving efforts and medical care.
“The entire law enforcement community mourns the loss of a brave and dedicated colleague,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten and while he may not be with us, his legacy will forever be embodied by those who, like him, go to work often placing service above self.”
Ritger joined the Wisconsin State Patrol as a member of the 67th Recruit Class and served in the Northwest Region for nearly five years, primarily in the Dunn County area.
During his career, Ritger earned certifications as a general law enforcement instructor, mobile field force team member and squad leader, and salvage vehicle inspector.
Before joining the Wisconsin State Patrol, Ritger served with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for nearly three years.
“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,” Evers said.
