Whitmer Chooses White House Over Fallen Officer’s Memorial
On Wednesday, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer was noticeably absent from the funeral of Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Deputy William “Bill” Butler Jr., who was killed in the line of duty. Instead, she chose to attend an all-hands meeting with Democratic governors at the White House. (RELATED: Secret Service Agent Robbed During Biden’s LA Fundraiser Highlights Rising Crime In California)
Before jetting off to Washington, Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff across the State Capitol Complex and all public buildings and grounds.
Breitbart’s Hannah Knudsen reports:
Whitmer’s director of communications, Bobby Leddy, reportedly confirmed in an email that Whitmer would attend the closed-door meeting in person, taking place on Wednesday. This means that Whitmer seemingly prioritized the Biden crisis meeting in Washington, DC, over a funeral for Michigan police officer William “Bill” Butler Jr.
Butler, 51, died in the line of duty as a result of a shootout with a suspect, Eric Fiddler of Jonesville, who, according to WTVB, “had been wanted on several warrants.”
The Incident: Deputy Butler’s Final Call
Deputy Butler was shot and killed while assisting another deputy at a traffic stop on June 27, 2024, in Jefferson Township. During a struggle, the driver pulled out a gun and mortally wounded Butler before fleeing on foot. Authorities cornered the assailant several hours later, and when he opened fire, officers returned fire, killing him. (RELATED: Watch Officers Rescue A Baby Who Had Been Shot 4 Times)
“Deputy Butler was a proud family man, small business owner, and dedicated officer who served both his nation and his neighbors in uniform,” a press release from Whitmer’s office dated July 2 stated. “As a Sheriff’s Deputy, he served Hillsdale County admirably, making a real difference in the lives of the people he loved most. As we mourn his loss, our hearts are with his wife, Sarah, their five children, their two grandchildren, and all those who knew and served with him in Hillsdale and overseas.”
Honoring a Hero: Butler’s Legacy
In addition to his service with the Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Butler was a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He leaves behind his wife and five children.
Call to Action: Flags at Half-Staff
Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and other organizations are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff in his honor.
