Gov. Pence directs flags be flown at half-staff to honor fallen officer

Governor Mike Pence directed that flags at businesses and state facilities throughout Indiana be flown at half-staff following the announcement that Howard County Sheriff’s Deputy Carl Koontz was killed in the line of duty.

Flags should be flown at half-staff beginning immediately until sunset on the day of Deputy Koontz’s funeral.
 
“Karen and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Howard County Sheriff's Deputy Carl Koontz and we extend our deepest condolences and prayers to his family, friends and the law enforcement community of Howard County who grieve the passing of this courageous young officer. Indiana will always honor the memory of Deputy Koontz and will always be grateful for his courageous service. Deputy Koontz lost his life in the line of duty and his passing reminds us all of the courage and risk that every member of our law enforcement community and their families face every day in the defending our communities.

We also offer our gratitude and prayers to Sergeant Jordan Buckley who was injured during the same incident in the line of duty. We are grateful for his courage and pray that he will make a quick recovery from his injuries and be restored soon to his family and his service to the people of Howard County,” said Governor Pence.

The Indiana State Police are leading the investigation on the scene and are providing support to the local law enforcement community in Howard County.