Hillsdale County Sheriff's Office Mourns the Loss of Deputy Bill Butler

A tragic incident occurred in Hillsdale County, Michigan on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of a sheriff's deputy and the suspect involved. This is a significant and somber event for the local law enforcement community, as it has been nearly a century since a Hillsdale County Sheriff's Office deputy was killed in action. of its functions.

The incident began during a routine traffic stop near the intersection of Beecher and Lamb roads. During the stop, the suspect, identified as Eric Michael Fiddler, pulled out a handgun and shot the deputy. The deputy, identified as Bill Butler, was seriously injured and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

After the shooting, Fiddler fled the scene on foot, leading to a massive manhunt by law enforcement. State troopers eventually located Fiddler hiding in a field near Culbert Road and Osseo Road South around 6:15 p.m. When officers attempted to apprehend him, Fiddler opened fire, prompting officers to return fire, resulting in his death.

This incident is particularly notable because it is the first time in nearly 100 years that a Hillsdale County Sheriff's Office deputy has been killed in the line of duty. Additionally, this is the second fatal shooting of a Michigan deputy in a week, following the death of Oakland County Sheriff's Deputy Bradley J. Reckling, who was fatally shot while he was chasing a suspect in Detroit.

Michigan State Police and local authorities have expressed their condolences and are expected to release more information as the investigation continues.

Congressman Bill Butler had deep roots in the Hillsdale area. He was known for serving in various areas of Hillsdale County. In addition to his duties as a Congressman, Bill Butler was also involved in real estate. He was listed as a real estate agent with the Hillsdale County Board of Realtors.