An Indiana man who was recently pardoned by President Donald Trump for his role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot has been shot and killed by a sheriff’s deputy during a traffic stop.
Matthew Huttle, 42, from Hobart, lost his life on Sunday afternoon near the boundary of Jasper and Pulaski counties following an alleged confrontation with law enforcement. The Indiana State Police reported that Huttle was stopped on State Road 14 around 4:15 p.m. by a deputy from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, the situation escalated when the deputy attempted to apprehend Huttle. The reasons for the attempted arrest remain unclear, but state police indicated that Huttle resisted, leading to a physical altercation. During this confrontation, the deputy discharged his firearm, resulting in Huttle’s death.
The circumstances surrounding the incident are still not fully understood, as police have not yet provided details regarding the basis for Huttle’s arrest or the specific events that led to the shooting. The Indiana State Police are conducting an investigation into the incident, which is standard protocol in cases involving officer-involved fatalities.
State police have confirmed that Huttle was in possession of a firearm during the traffic stop. However, further information regarding the altercation with the deputy and the rationale for Huttle’s arrest has not been made public.
“A confrontation occurred between the suspect and the officer, which led to the officer discharging his weapon and fatally injuring the suspect,” stated a press release. Sheriff Patrick Williamson has called for an investigation by the Indiana State Police and noted that the deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave in accordance with departmental policy.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of the deceased, as any loss of life is profoundly distressing for those who were close to Mr. Huttle,” Williamson expressed. “I will disclose the officer’s name once I receive authorization from the State Police Detectives.”
Federal sources informed FOX59 that Huttle had recently received a pardon from President Trump. Huttle and his uncle, Dale Huttle from Crown Point, were arrested for their participation in the Capitol breach.
Matthew Huttle was subsequently found and arrested in Boise, Idaho. The FBI reported that Huttle spent approximately 10 minutes inside the Capitol, although he remained on the Capitol grounds for several hours.
“I have no regrets. I will not say I’m sorry,” stated Dale Huttle concerning both his and his nephew Matthew’s involvement. Both individuals were convicted for their actions during the Capitol incursion. Matthew Huttle was sentenced to six months in federal prison, followed by 12 months of supervised release, with his prison term ending on July 17, 2024, according to federal records.
Nicholas Barnes, who has represented Huttle for around a decade, mainly in cases related to driving and alcohol offenses, expressed surprise at Huttle’s participation in the January 6 incident. He is eager to understand the events that led to his client’s tragic shooting on Sunday.
“To my knowledge,” he remarked in an interview, “Matthew was a nonviolent person, so I am aware that the Indiana State Police are looking into the incident, and I will be very interested to review their findings.”
On January 20, President Trump granted clemency to over 1,500 individuals associated with the January 6 Capitol breach, which included pardons for many and commutations for those convicted of seditious conspiracy.
