New Jersey Flags to Fly at Half-Staff to Honor Fallen State Trooper

Gov. Sherrill orders flags lowered on Feb. 10 to mourn the death of Sgt. Sean W. Acker

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has issued an executive order to fly all state and U.S. flags at half-staff on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to honor the memory of New Jersey State Police Sergeant First Class Trooper Sean William Acker, who died on February 4 due to complications from injuries sustained in the line of duty.

Why it matters

Lowering flags to half-staff is a solemn tradition to recognize the sacrifice of public servants like Trooper Acker, who dedicated 19 years of service to the New Jersey State Police. The order serves as a public display of respect and mourning for the Acker family and the broader law enforcement community.

The details

Acker joined the New Jersey State Police in 2006 after graduating from the 145th class of the State Police Academy. He is survived by his wife, retired NJ State Police Capt. Lisa Acker, and their two children, Connor and Samantha. The half-staff directive will apply statewide for the full day on February 10 as a show of respect for Acker's service and the risks undertaken by law enforcement officers across the state.

  • Trooper Acker died on February 4, 2026.
  • Flags will be flown at half-staff on February 10, 2026.

The players

Gov. Mikie Sherrill

The Governor of New Jersey who issued the executive order to lower flags to half-staff.

Sgt. Sean W. Acker

A 19-year veteran of the New Jersey State Police who died on February 4, 2026, due to complications from injuries sustained in the line of duty.

Lisa Acker

The wife of Sgt. Sean W. Acker, who is a retired New Jersey State Police Captain.

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What they’re saying

“Trooper Acker's death is a heartbreaking loss, and this order is intended to honor his service and recognize the risks undertaken by law enforcement officers across the state.”

— Gov. Mikie Sherrill (Executive Order)

The takeaway

The lowering of flags to half-staff is a solemn tradition that pays tribute to the sacrifice of public servants like Trooper Acker, underscoring the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement officers who protect our communities.