Remembering Trooper Butterfield.

Remembering Trooper Butterfield.

#MasonCountyNews #TrooperButterfield

FREE SOIL TOWNSHIP — A group of people gathered Monday evening on a quiet stretch of Custer Road to pay to tribute to a Michigan State Police trooper who lost his life at that location six years ago after being senselessly shot to death. 

The short service included an invocation, message and benediction by Michigan State Police Chaplain John Hansen, the singing of the “Star Spangled Banner” by Bob Perrin, the singing of “Amazing Grace” by Taylor Makowicki, a gun salute by members of the Mason County Allied Veterans, and the playing of “Taps” by Mason County Sheriff Office Deputy Matt Warmuskerken and Rob Alway. The event also included honor guards from the Mason County Allied Veterans, along with the Michigan State Police and Mason County Sheriff’s Office. Butterfield was a U.S. Army veteran. 

On Sept. 9, 2013, Trooper Paul Butterfield was patrolling Custer Road between Townline and Gajeski roads when he pulled over a pick-up truck and was shot and killed by its 19-year-old driver. The roadside memorial now serves as a place to remember Butterfield’s sacrifice to his country, the State of Michigan, and the people of Mason County. 

This story is copyrighted © 2019, all rights reserved by Media Group 31, LLC, PO Box 21, Scottville, MI 49454. No portion of this story or images may be reproduced in any way, including print or broadcast, without expressed written consent.