Holly MatkinCrockett County, TN – Crockett County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Deputy Matthew Butler died unexpectedly on Dec. 16.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is handling the investigation into his cause of death, WMC reported.
Crockett County Sheriff Troy Klyce announced the 31-year-old deputy’s death in a Facebook post on Dec. 17.
“We are all devastated by this great loss and recognize the incredible stress that comes from serving as a law enforcement officer – the likes of which we have never seen before in our lifetimes,” Sheriff Klyce wrote.
“We ask for your patience over the next couple of days and we ask that the family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time. We are a big, tight-knit family and some how – with your steadfast support – we will get through this together,” he added.
Sheriff Klyce said Deputy Butler’s death marks “a very tragic event” for the CCSO, which resulted in his decision to request the TBI’s assistance.
“They graciously came to assist us and we appreciate them taking the lead allowing our law enforcement community the space to grieve,” he added.
Deputy Butler joined the sheriff’s office after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, Sheriff Klyce said.
The U.S. Army veteran served alongside his stepfather in Iraq, according to his obituary.
“My prayers are with the Department and Matthew’s family,” a comment on the CCSO’s Facebook post read. “Matthew was a Great man and Great Officer!!! He will be missed by all!!”
Deputy Butler leaves behind his parents, as well as his siblings, grandparents, nephews, and nieces, according to his obituary.
A fundraising page established to help his family in the wake of their loss has raised over $4,700 so far.
Deputy Butler was laid to rest Dec. 21.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Crockett County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Matthew Butler, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
