Gov. Cox orders flags lowered in honor of firefighter pilots killed battling Widemouth 2 Fire

SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 11, 2026) - Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox has ordered the flags of the United States and the state of Utah to be lowered to half-staff at all state facilities in honor of firefighter pilots Chris Andersen and Miles Elliott, who died in the line of duty while battling the Widemouth 2 Fire in Utah.

"Chris Andersen and Miles Elliott dedicated their lives to serving others, and they made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our state," Gov. Cox said. "Utah mourns with their families and loved ones and honors two men who came to our aid when we needed them most. We will never forget their service and sacrifice."

Flags should be lowered beginning Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026, and remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of the last interment. The Governor's Office will issue an additional notice indicating when flags may be returned to full-staff.

Gov. Cox invites private citizens, businesses and other organizations to join in this recognition and lower their flags as well.