A traffic stop in Jasper County turned fatal on Sunday afternoon when a 42-year-old man from Hobart, Indiana, was shot and killed by a sheriff’s deputy. The incident occurred around 4:15 p.m. on State Road 14, near County Road 475 East, close to the Pulaski County line.
According to the Indiana State Police, the encounter escalated after the suspect, identified as Matthew W. Huttle, resisted arrest. During the ensuing confrontation, the deputy discharged their firearm, fatally striking Huttle. Specific details about the reason for the traffic stop or what led to the altercation have not yet been released.
Authorities confirmed that Huttle was armed at the time of the incident, though the exact circumstances surrounding his possession of the firearm remain unclear. No additional injuries or involvement of other individuals have been reported. The Jasper County Coroner’s Office has identified Huttle and notified his family.
In a public statement, Jasper County Sheriff Patrick Williamson expressed his condolences to Huttle’s family, acknowledging the pain and grief caused by the incident. Sheriff Williamson also emphasized transparency, announcing that the Indiana State Police would oversee the investigation to ensure an unbiased inquiry.
The deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave, in line with standard department policy for officer-involved shootings. The sheriff’s office has not yet disclosed the deputy’s name, citing the ongoing investigation and awaiting approval from state authorities to release further details.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting. The incident highlights the risks and complexities of law enforcement interactions, drawing attention to the importance of comprehensive reviews in such cases. Further updates are expected as investigators gather evidence and assess the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.