Flags To Be Flown At Half-Staff In Honor Of Fallen Wayzata Officer

In honor and remembrance of Wazyata Police Officer Bill Mathews, Gov. Mark Dayton has ordered all United States flags and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all state and federal buildings in the state from sunrise until sunset Thursday. Mathews died on Friday, Sept. 8 after being struck by car while in the line of duty.

Police Officer Mathews was 47-years-old and a seven-year veteran of the Wayzata Police Department and a native of Pine Island, Minnesota. Prior to becoming a licensed officer, Mathews served with both the Winona Police Department as a reserve officer and the Rochester Police Department as an intern.

He began his career as a licensed peace officer in 1998 with the Zumbrota Police Department, also working part-time with the Olmstead County and Goodhue County Sheriff’s Offices.

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"The State of Minnesota recognizes Officer William Mathews for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his fellow Minnesotans with its deepest gratitude," read a statement from the governor's office.

A celebration of Bill's life, with full police honors, will be held on Thursday at Wayzata Free Church in Plymouth, followed by interment at Summit Park Cemetery. Dayton will attend the service for Mathews, according to a news release.

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Image via Wayzata Police Department