New York charity will pay off mortgage for slain Michigan deputy

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

On June 27 , Butler was pulled over a vehicle driven by a man who had warrants for his arrest. The passenger in the car was 34-year-old 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 him 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 left behind a wife and five children. At his funeral on July 3. he was recalled as a “rugged, engaging and caring man,” “family man” and “American hero.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.