Hillsdale County, MI – The Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Deputy shot and killed during a traffic stop Thursday afternoon has been identified as William Butler, Jr.
He was a 12-year veteran of the department, served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, a husband, and father of three.
The shooting took place at approximately 2:15 p.m near the intersection of Beecher Rd. and Lamb Rd. Prior to the shooting, a detective sergeant from the Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Department noticed the driver of a vehicle with active warrants. A deputy sergeant with the HCSD initiated the traffic stop. The vehicle was being driven by a 33- year-old male.
Deputy Butler, Jr arrived on scene to assist with the traffic stop. The driver was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant and placed in the patrol vehicle. Eric Fiddler was the passenger in the stopped vehicle. He refused to identify himself, and was removed from the vehicle. Fiddler was identified by one of the officers on scene.
Deputies attempted to take Fiddler into custody when a fight ensued. A news release by the Michigan State Police said that during the fight, Fiddler produced a handgun from his waistband and fired, striking Deputy Butler. Deputies returned fire, at which time Fiddler fled on foot. Deputies immediately placed Deputy Butler in their patrol car and took him to Hillsdale Hospital. He passed away from his injuries.
Officers from numerous agencies converged on the area in search of Fiddler, and set up a perimeter. MSP Aviation, K9 Units, and the MSP Emergency Support Team searched the area. At approximately 6:15 p.m. troopers located Fiddler in a field near Culbert Rd and Osseo Rd South. Fiddler was ordered to surrender. He fired a weapon at troopers.
Troopers returned fire, killing Fiddler. No troopers were injured during the engagement. The MSP First District Investigations Section is conducting the investigation into the shooting of Deputy Butler. The MSP 5th District Special Investigation Section is conducting the investigation into the shooting of Eric Fiddler. Deputy William Butler, Jr. was 51 years old.
Tune into our local and state newscasts, anytime day or night, for this story and more.
Sign up for WLEN’s weekday newsletter: 
Follow WLEN on social media: 
#wlenradio #wlennews #lenaweenews
*media courtesy of the Michigan State Police*