Governor Phil Murphy today signed Executive Order No. 335, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Friday, July 7, 2023, in recognition and mourning of Newark firefighters Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brooks, Jr. On July 5, 2023, firefighters Acabou and Brooks were two of the many brave firefighters who responded to a fire aboard a cargo ship docked at Port Newark Container Terminal. Acabou and Brooks tragically both lost their lives while courageously battling the blaze aboard the ship.

“Augusto Acabou served as a firefighter for over 9 years and Wayne Brooks, Jr. served for over 16 years, with honorable devotion, remarkable courage, exceptional professionalism, loyalty, and commitment to the city of Newark and this state,” said Governor Murphy. “New Jersey has lost two courageous heroes who dedicated their lives to keeping our communities safe. It is with great sadness that we mourn their passing, and we keep their colleagues and loved ones in our prayers.”