December 23, 2022 |
The emergency medical technician from Saratoga killed early Wednesday morning was not the only first responder who died this week in the line of duty.
Flags are at half-mast in Wyoming today at the order for Governor Mark Gordon. The governor ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flag be flown at half-staff statewide today, Friday, December 23, in honor and memory of Bruce Lang, a volunteer firefighter and training officer with the Pine Haven Volunteer Fire Department.
Lang died Thursday when the utility task vehicle he was riding on plunged into open water while he was attempting to assist another individual who had fallen through ice on Keyhole Reservoir.
In his statement, the governor also acknowledged the loss of 29-year-old Tyeler Harris, who was struck and killed by a passing semi-truck while responding to a crash with injuries on Interstate 80 west of Rawlins early Wednesday.
The governor said flags will be lowered in honor of the EMT at a later date.
“These tragedies are a reminder of the risks that accompany the selfless commitment of first responders in our state, who are all deeply committed to serving their fellow citizens,” Governor Gordon added.
Harris, who lived in Saratoga, leaves behind his wife Ashley and three young children. His family is asking for help paying for a funeral and making sure the kids have everything they need.
A cousin of Tyeler’s set up GoFundMe page to help with expenses. After less than eight hours online yesterday, $25,000 had been raised.
An account for the family has also been established at the Bank of Commerce in Rawlins.
