Both U.S. and Connecticut state flags are lowered to half-staff today in honor of Sandy Hook Fire Chief William Halstead, who died in the line of duty after responding to a call on Friday, Gov. Ned Lamont says.

Gov. Lamont's office released a statement saying in part, "Flags should be lowered immediately and remain lowered until sunset on the date of interment, which has not yet been determined. Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered during this same duration of time."

Chief Halstead provided decades of service to the community in which he grew up and the community he loved, Gov. Lamont says.

“His dedication is exemplary, and we are lucky to have leaders like him protecting the residents of Connecticut. His passing after responding to a call in the line of duty is heartbreaking, and I send my deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow firefighters from the Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company.”

Chief Halstead joined the Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company in January 1965 when he turned 16. He has served as its chief since 1978.

Halstead responded to a call Friday night then got sick after returning home before he died.