In a shocking turn of events, an Indiana man recently pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his role in the January 6 Capitol riot was shot and killed by a deputy just days later.
Matthew Huttle, 42, was fatally wounded during a traffic stop conducted by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department near the Pulaski County line on Monday. According to a statement from the Indiana State Police, the encounter escalated when the deputy attempted to arrest Huttle, who allegedly resisted.
An altercation ensued, during which Huttle, who was reportedly armed, was shot by the officer. Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the confrontation. The Jasper County Prosecutor’s Office and state police have launched an investigation into the shooting, while the involved officer has been placed on paid administrative leave, per department policy.
Sheriff Patrick Williamson expressed condolences to Huttle’s family, acknowledging the grief surrounding the incident. “Any loss of life is traumatic to those close to Mr. Huttle,” he stated.
Huttle had pleaded guilty in 2023 to entering restricted Capitol grounds during the January 6 riot. Prosecutors argued that he played a significant role in the chaos, claiming he was at the “forefront of violence” when rioters breached the West Front police line. He was sentenced to six months in jail and released in July 2024.
Just last week, Huttle was among 1,500 individuals granted pardons by Trump, a sweeping move that stirred political controversy. The decision to pardon those involved in the insurrection drew criticism from many lawmakers and legal experts.
The circumstances surrounding Huttle’s death remain under investigation. Authorities have yet to clarify what led to the traffic stop or the precise nature of the alleged resistance. As details unfold, the case is likely to fuel further debates on law enforcement actions, political pardons, and the long-lasting impact of the Capitol riot.
