Governor Brad Little ordered U.S. flags and State of Idaho flags to fly at half staff in accordance with Idaho Code 67-820 to honor the life and service of Joseph Wyatt Gates of Raft River, a firefighter who died in the line of duty this week in Cassia County after their firetruck went off the road. Another firefighter in the truck was injured.

Flags will fly at half staff immediately until the day following his memorial service, which will be shared at a later time.

"I join many Idahoans in expressing deep sadness by the tragic loss of Joseph Wyatt Gates, a brave firefighter who died in the line of duty. Please keep the Gates family, the other injured firefighter, and all of our brave first responders in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," Governor Little said.