Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called for all of the U.S. and state flags at the state capitol complex and upon all public buildings and grounds across Michigan to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday in remembrance of Arielle Anderson, Alexandria Verner and Brian Fraser, who were killed in the Michigan State University Shooting on Feb. 13, 2023. 

“A year ago today, every Spartan’s heart stood still as our community was shattered by a devastating act of gun violence,” Whitmer said in a statement. “Today we honor the memories of those we lost and hold each other close as we continue to grieve and process. We are — and always will be — Spartan Strong, but days like today are hard for everyone. I encourage us all to give each other some grace and be there for one another. We will get through this together.”

As the state remembers the students who lost their lives and stands in solidarity with the Michigan State Spartan community, she encouraged residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations to display the flag at half-staff. 

Flags will be returned to full staff on Wednesday.