why are flags at half mass today

Flags are at half-mast today to honor the victims of a mass shooting that occurred on August 27, 2025, at a Catholic school in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This senseless act of violence resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to at least 17 others. President Donald Trump issued a proclamation ordering U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide from August 27 to August 31, 2025, as a mark of respect for the victims. Various states, including Virginia and others, have also followed this order to honor the victims.