Texas Border Business
EDINBURG – Texas Governor Greg Abbott granted permission to fly the United States and Texas flags at half-staff in honor of the life and public service of McAllen Officer Police Officer Edelmiro Garza, Jr. and Officer Ismael Chavez, Jr. They were killed in the line of duty while responding to a call in McAllen on Saturday, July 11, 2020.
“Today we mourn with a heavy heart the lives of two courageous members of the City of McAllen Police Department,” said Cortez. “These two officers left an indelible mark on their community and the state of Texas. May God be with their family and friends during this difficult time.”
In a letter addressed to McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, Abbott sent his condolences.
“The First Lady and I extend our prayers of comfort to the Garza and Chavez families during their time of grief. I urge all Texans to remember and honor their faithful service to the State of Texas as brave and courageous law enforcement officers,” said Abbott.
Judge Cortez immediately ordered all County buildings to lower flags to half-staff. Judge Cortez encouraged that all flags at government, city and school buildings join Hidalgo County and lower flags in tribute to Officer Garza and Officer Chavez. Flags may remain at half-staff until the end of the day of their final interment and should return to full-staff the following day.
