Minnesota Flags to Fly Half-Staff in Honor of Tribal Firefighter Leslie R. Washington
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has ordered state flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Leslie R. Washington, a tribal firefighter who died while battling the Bear Trap Fire near Ely, Minnesota. Washington, a member of the K-River 2…
Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, August 13, 2026 —
ST. PAUL, MN – In a solemn tribute, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has directed that state flags be flown at half-staff. This order honors Leslie R. Washington, a tribal firefighter who tragically died while engaged in efforts to combat the Bear Trap Fire. The wildfire is located near Ely, Minnesota.
Washington was a member of the K-River 2 crew. The crew hails from Noorvik, Alaska. The firefighter experienced a medical emergency on August 11. Despite efforts, Washington was pronounced dead following this emergency.
The Bear Trap Fire is an ongoing incident near Ely, a region known for its natural landscapes and frequent wildfire activity. The incident underscores the dangerous work undertaken by firefighters, particularly those dedicated to wildland fire suppression.
The directive for state flags to be flown at half-staff is a customary gesture to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions or whose passing has deeply impacted the community or state. In this instance, the honor is bestowed upon a firefighter who died in the line of duty, serving in Minnesota.
Story summarized from the original created by Ryan Pattee on kstp.com, see more information here.
