Former Pardoned Capitol Rioter Shot Dead by Police in Indiana Traffic Stop
January 28, 2025
Matthew Huttle, a 42-year-old man from Indiana, was shot and killed by police during a traffic stop shortly after being pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot.
At the time of the traffic stop, Huttle was found to be in possession of a firearm, although details of the confrontation remain undisclosed.
Previously, Huttle had been sentenced to six months in custody after pleading guilty to entering a restricted area of the Capitol, where he recorded his actions on video.
Huttle's personal struggles included the deaths of his mother in April 2023 and the mother of his son in 2022 from a fentanyl overdose, which contributed to his alcohol abuse.
Described as a hard worker, Huttle frequently moved between states for employment opportunities, but he also had a lengthy criminal history, particularly related to driving offenses.
Trump's decision to grant clemency to individuals involved in the Capitol riot, including Huttle, has faced criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, particularly regarding those who violently attacked law enforcement.
In light of Huttle's death, Jasper County Sheriff Patrick Williamson expressed condolences to the family and emphasized the need for transparency in the ongoing investigation.
Huttle's attorney, Nick Barnes, stated he was unaware of the specifics surrounding the shooting but intends to seek more information.
Huttle's case is part of a troubling trend, as other individuals pardoned by Trump for their roles in the January 6 events, such as Daniel Ball, have also encountered legal issues post-pardon.
The investigation into the shooting will be reviewed by the Jasper County Prosecutor's Office, with the identity of the deputy involved pending approval from state police detectives.
According to the FBI, Huttle was on Capitol grounds for several hours during the January 6 insurrection and entered the Capitol building for approximately ten minutes.
Summary based on 16 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Jan 28, 2025
Matthew Huttle: January 6 defendant killed by police days after Trump pardon
CNN • Jan 28, 2025
Indiana man pardoned by Trump is fatally shot during traffic stop | CNN
HuffPost • Jan 28, 2025
Indiana Man Pardoned By Donald Trump Is Fatally Shot During Traffic Stop
The Sydney Morning Herald • Jan 28, 2025
Man pardoned by Trump over January 6 riot fatally shot during traffic stop