Flags will be lowered to half-staff Friday in honor of fallen EMT

Gov. Chris Christie is ordering all state buildings to fly flags at half-staff on Friday in recognition of the life and in mourning of the passing of Hinal Patel.

Patel provided emergency medical services on behalf of the Spotswood Emergency Medical Service and the North Stelton Volunteer Fire Company in Piscataway.

She tragically passed away in the line of duty following a motor vehicle accident while responding to an emergency situation on July 25.

“[Emergency Medical Technician] Hinal Patel’s compassion for others and commitment to her community through providing care to those in need makes her a hero and a true role model for all New Jerseyans. It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of Hinal Patel and extend our sincere sympathy to her family, friends and fellow first responders,” Christie said. “It is appropriate and fitting for the State of New Jersey to remember EMT Hinal Patel, to mark her passing, and to honor her memory.”