Governor Ned Lamont is directing U.S. and state flags on all Connecticut state government buildings and properties to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday, October 2, 2026, in honor of Connecticut Department of Transportation employee Elvin Hernandez.
Hernandez was struck and killed by a motor vehicle last week while on the job doing road maintenance work on Interstate 95 in Fairfield, according to the governor's office.
The lowering of flags is being coordinated with memorial and interment services, which are scheduled to be held Friday in Bridgeport and Easton.
"Elvin Hernandez was a dedicated state employee and public servant, and I join his family, friends, and colleagues at the Connecticut Department of Transportation in mourning his passing," Lamont said. "This is a tragic situation that never should have happened, and it is a stark reminder to all drivers about the critical importance of showing respect to all road maintenance workers and first responders while working on the roadside. I am directing flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Elvin's life and selfless commitment to his community."
Under the directive, flags will be at half-staff on the Connecticut State Capitol building and all other state-operated buildings, grounds, and facilities statewide. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, and other private entities and government subdivisions are encouraged to lower their flags for the same duration. Since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags should also be lowered.