Walz orders flags at half-staff to honor fallen Victoria firefighter

VICTORIA, Minn. (FOX 9) - Flags are set to fly at half-staff to honor the life of a Victoria, Minnesota, firefighter.

Victoria firefighter death 

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Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise to sunset on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, to honor the life of Laura Zumbusch-Wood, who served as a volunteer in the Victoria Fire Department for 16 years, according to a news release from the governor's office. 

State officials add that she dedicated her life to "protecting others with courage, compassion, and commitment" while making community contributions through her work in landscaping and design, playing a "pivotal role" in planning Victoria's new fire station. 

An obituary says Laura Zumbusch-Wood died of kidney cancer on Sunday, July 27, 2025, while surrounded by loved ones. 

What they're saying:

Gov. Walz released the following statement: 

"Firefighter Laura Zumbusch-Wood dedicated her life to caring for others, as a community leader, mother, and volunteer firefighter for the City of Victoria. Her service, strength, and spirit touched the lives of many. I extend my deepest condolences to her husband, Paul, her son Zachary, her family, her fellow firefighters, and everyone who knew and loved her."