A 42-year-old Indiana man who President Donald Trump recently pardoned for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots was fatally shot during a traffic stop by a Jasper County sheriff’s deputy earlier this week. The man was reportedly pulled over for a routine stop before the situation escalated. Authorities say the deputy opened fire after an altercation while trying to arrest the man.
“An altercation took place between the suspect and the officer, which resulted in the officer firing his weapon and fatally wounding the suspect," a police statement read.
While the details of the situation remain unclear, according to state police, Matthew Huttle resisted the arrest and allegedly became physical with the deputy. Sheriff Patrick Williamson has requested an investigation, and the deputy was placed on paid administrative leave by department policy. No reason for the traffic stop or what led up to the ensuing struggle has been revealed.
“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," Williamson said in a statement. "I will release the officer's name once I have approval from the State Police Detectives.”
According to authorities, a firearm belonging to Huttle was found at the scene. However, it is unknown if Huttle had been holding the weapon at the time of the altercation.
Huttle was one of 1,500 prisoners who recently regained their freedom after receiving clemency from Trump for his involvement in the J6 riots. According to court records, Huttle entered into an agreement with federal prosecutors in August 2023, pleading guilty to entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds. In November 2023, he was sentenced to six months in federal prison, followed by 12 months of supervised release. His uncle, Dale Huttle from Crown Point, was also arrested during the J6 breach and pardoned by Trump.
His lawyer said he was surprised at Huttle’s involvement in the Jan. 6 riots and said that, to his knowledge, Huttle was a “nonviolent individual.” He said he is interested in learning what the Indiana State Police discover in their investigation.