Governor Parson orders flags to be flown at half-staff following Independence Police Officer’s death
Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans was shot and killed on September 15
Today, Missouri Governor Mike Parson ordered that U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Jackson County on Friday to honor Independence Police Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans.
Evans was undergoing field training on September 15, when he was shot and killed in the line of duty as he performed a residence check for a parole violator, according to a news release from Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s Office.
Evans was also an organ donor; his kidney was donated during transplant surgery for Springfield Police Office Mark Priebe, which took place on September 18.
Governor Mike Parson stated later in the release, “At just age 22, and only two months after graduating from the police academy, Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans will be remembered as a selfless individual who was committed to helping others,” Governor Parson said. “Even as we mourn Officer Madrid-Evans’ senseless death, we are filled with hope because this brave officer’s organ donation will extend the life of Officer Mark Priebe. Officer Madrid-Evans’ final, generous act is a lasting contribution to the public good.”
You can view the proclamation here.