Trooper Paul L. Hutchins
Michigan State Police
Michigan

End of Watch: Friday, August 30, 1985
Cause: Gunfire

Biographical Info
Age: 30
Tour of Duty: Not available
Badge Number: Not available

Trooper Hutchins was shot and killed while off duty during an armed robbery. Trooper Hutchins and a companion were in Detroit when two men approached them and demanded Trooper Hutchins' wallet and his companion's purse. After giving up the items the suspects instructed them to walk to a more secluded area.

As he complied, the suspects saw an additional wallet in Trooper Hutchins' pocket and demanded he hand it over. This wallet contained his identification and badge. As he gave it to them he suddenly pushed his companion away and drew his off-duty weapon as he ran a short distance away to draw the suspect's attention from his companion. As he turned back to the suspects he was struck in the head by a round fired by the them.

Four local gang members were apprehend and convicted of the murder. All four were sentenced to 150 to 300 years in prison.

 
Photograph: Trooper Paul L. Hutchins

Patch image: Michigan State Police, Michigan

Visit Trooper Hutchins's memorial at www.ODMP.org