LANSING, Mich. — Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered flags at half-staff Friday to honor Joseph Zangaro, the chief bailiff killed while on duty during the Berrien County Courthouse shooting July 11.
Zangaro was working a normal day at the courthouse when a man facing charges, Larry Gordon, wrestled a gun away from a deputy, wounding the deputy. He then shot and killed two bailiffs, including Zangaro.
Gordon, 44, was later killed by a responding officer.
Zangaro was a long-time member of the Michigan State Police, eventually retiring and becoming the head of security at the Berrien County Courthouse, where he was chief bailiff for 13 years.
“Chief Bailiff Zangaro dedicated much of his life to protecting and serving Michigan citizens, both as a law enforcement officer for decades and then in the courtroom,” Snyder said in a release. “I send my most heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and community for this tragic loss.”
A service will take place to honor Zangaro on Friday, July 15, at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center, Main Stage, on 2755 E. Napier Ave. in Benton Harbor. The service begins at 1 p.m.
