Great Lakes Wire

Flags at state government buildings were flown at half-staff on Sept. 23 in honor of a firefighter who died after battling a blaze.

The date was the one-year anniversary of the death of Shayne Raxter, a Detroit firefighter, according to a press release from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's (D-MI) office. "U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and across all public buildings and grounds" were lowered to half-staff.

"Shayne Raxter was one of Michigan's courageous firefighters who put his life on the line every day to keep our communities safe," Whitmer said in the press release. "His commitment to service with the Detroit Fire Department is inspiring. As we remember this fallen hero today, my heart goes out to his loved ones and the entire fire department. Let's keep working together to keep our communities safe."

The practice of lowering flags to half-staff involves raising them to the peak briefly and then lowering them to the half-staff position, the press release noted. Flags were returned to full staff the following day.

"Shayne was a stellar example of the selflessness and dedication our firefighters demonstrate each and every day on the job," Charles Simms, Detroit fire commissioner, said in the press release. "It was a pleasure and honor to have him as a member of the Detroit Fire Department, and I know the entire DFD family joins me in remembering Shayne's life and legacy."

Raxter was a dedicated public servant and advocate for his community, according to the press release. He left behind a wife, Elissa, and two sons, Benjamin and Noah.