why are the flags at half mast today

The flags are at half-mast today as a mark of respect for the victims of a senseless act of violence that occurred on August 27, 2025, at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The mass shooting incident resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to at least 17 others. The President of the United States ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across the country from August 27 until sunset on August 31, 2025, including at public buildings, military posts, naval stations, and embassies, as a tribute to those affected by this tragedy.