BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Wednesday, Nov. 21, and encourages North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, in honor of the air ambulance pilot, paramedic and nurse who lost their lives in a plane crash Sunday night northwest of Mandan.
Authorities today identified the deceased as Bismarck Air Medical pilot Todd Lasky, 48, of Bismarck; paramedic Chris Iverson, 47, of Mandan; and Bonnie Cook, 63, of Bismarck, a neonatal intensive care unit nurse with CHI St. Alexius Health. The three were on a flight from Bismarck to Williston.
“Ambulance crews play an essential role in responding to emergencies and protecting the health and safety of our citizens, and we owe them tremendous respect and gratitude for their unwavering commitment and selfless service,” Burgum said. “On behalf of a grateful state, Kathryn and I offer our deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of these three dedicated individuals who lost their lives in the line of duty. Their legacy will live on in the caring and compassionate service provided by all of our first responders.”