New York charity will pay off mortgage for slain deputy

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Tunnel to Towers, a New York-based nonprofit, will pay off the mortgage of slain Hillsdale County Sheriff Deputy William “Bill” Butler.

Trevor Tamsen, a representative of the Tunnel to Towers , tells 6 News an email circulated last week on social media is correct.

“I can confirm that Tunnel to Towers CEO Frank Siller spoke with the family, and the Foundation will be paying off the mortgage,” he wrote in an email. “We will have an official announcement when the mortgage is paid in full.”

The organization runs a program called the “ Fallen First Responder Home Program ,” specifically designed and funded to pay off the mortgages of homes of first responders who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Butler was killed on June 27, 2024 , during an incident in Hillsdale County. Butler was conducting a traffic stop near Beecher and Lamb Roads intersection with a vehicle driven by a man who had warrants for his arrest. The passenger in the car was Eric Michael Fiddler , who was also wanted on warrants.

Police say Fiddler pulled out a gun and shot the deputy when Butler attempted to place the 34-year-old under arrest.

Hours later, law enforcement says Fiddler opened fire on police as they attempted to arrest him. He was shot and killed.

Butler was a veteran who leaves behind a wife and 5 children. His funeral was on July 3.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.