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Flags across Pennsylvania are flying at half-staff today (Tuesday, May 27) to honor Alec Campbell, a state park ranger who died in a tragic accident. Campbell's body was found in Neshaminy Creek at Tyler State Park on Sunday (May 25), two days after his kayak capsized. He was 38 years old.
Governor Josh Shapiro ordered the flags to be lowered, expressing gratitude for Campbell's service to the Commonwealth. "As I told his wife Rena, we are eternally grateful for Alec’s service to his Commonwealth," Shapiro said in a Facebook post. "May his memory be a blessing."
The search for Campbell began on Friday (May 23) and involved the Pennsylvania State Police and several local and state agencies. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn expressed her condolences, stating, "We are deeply saddened by the death of Alec Campbell, a dedicated member of our Pennsylvania state park staff."
Campbell was a husband and father of two boys. A GoFundMe page describes him as "a bright and energetic light to all," and a beloved member of his family and community. The Bucks County coroner's office is working to determine the time and cause of his death.
Tyler State Park, located about 30 miles northeast of Philadelphia, was temporarily closed but is set to reopen today. All Pennsylvanians are invited to participate in the tribute by lowering their flags.