Matthew Huttle, a 42-year-old Indiana resident recently pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot, was fatally shot by a Jasper County Sheriff’s deputy during a traffic stop on January 26, 2025, the New York Post reported.
The altercation occurred around 4:15 p.m. near the Pulaski County line on Indiana State Road 14. According to the Indiana State Police, a deputy initiated a traffic stop on Huttle’s vehicle.
“During the traffic stop, the officer attempted to arrest the suspect when the suspect resisted,” the state police said, according to the New York Times. “An altercation took place between the suspect and the officer, which resulted in the officer firing his weapon and fatally wounding the suspect.” Investigators have confirmed that Huttle was in possession of a firearm at the time of the incident, according to The Indianapolis Star.
Huttle had been involved in the January 6 Capitol incident, where he illegally entered the Capitol grounds. He was arrested and later sentenced to six months in prison for entering a restricted building. On January 19, 2025, President Trump issued a pardon to Huttle, along with approximately 1,500 others connected to the Capitol events, People reported.
Following the incident, the deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave, pending the outcome of the investigation. Jasper County Sheriff Patrick Williamson expressed condolences to Huttle’s family and emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
“For full transparency, I requested the Indiana State Police to investigate this officer involved shooting. The officer that is involved has been placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard protocol and is our policy in these situations. Our condolences go out to the family of the deceased as any loss of life is traumatic to those that were close to Mr. Huttle. I will release the officer’s name once I have approval from the State Police Detectives,” Williamson said, according to Fox News.
The Indiana State Police are leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. As of now, no further details have been released regarding the circumstances of the altercation or the identities of the individuals involved. Authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
The incident has sparked discussions about law enforcement practices and the use of force during traffic stops. Community leaders are calling for transparency and accountability as the investigation progresses. Local residents have expressed concern over the events, emphasizing the need for clear communication from authorities and a fair examination of the facts.
The fatal shooting of Matthew Huttle during a traffic stop has raised significant questions about law enforcement procedures and the circumstances leading to the use of deadly force. As the investigation continues, authorities are urged to provide timely updates to the public to ensure transparency and maintain trust within the community.
