Paul Butterfield - Law Enforcement - Michigan

Trooper Paul Butterfield, age 43, died in the line of duty on September 9, 2013, at a hospital in Traverse City, Michigan.

Paul was a member of the Michigan State Police. He worked out of Hart, Michigan. He had 14 years of service.

Paul was making a traffic stop on a road in Mason County, at approximately 6:20 p.m.

He called in the stop. A few minutes later a citizen called 911 to report a trooper had been shot. Responding units located Trooper Butterfield on the ground suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He was flown to Munson Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds while in surgery.

Paul's description of the vehicle enabled investigators to locate the suspect along with a female accomplice, at a convenience store in a neighboring county approximately two hours later. Officers exchanged gunfire with him as they made contact, wounding the male subject before taking them both into custody.

Paul graduated in 1988 from Bridgeport High School in Bridgeport Township, Michigan.  He is remembered as a great athlete who was popular in the community.  He was a wrestler and a runner in high school. He won several awards for long distance and cross country running. 

Paul was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Michael, Archangel, Patron
Saint of the Police,
pray for Paul

Friends said that he was recently engaged to be married.  He had a cat and a dog whom he loved like they were his buddies.

Paul is described as bright and capable.  He had wanted to be in law enforcement like his father. 

Paul is survived by many loving friends and relatives including his fiancee. 

Thank you for your service to the public, Paul.

God save us from the Lost Ones who stalk the Earth stealing away life. Amen.

Pray for all who die in the line of duty. Amen.

Pray that Paul is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.