News

Actions

Man Suspected in Killing State Trooper Still Hospitalized

Posted at 7:54 AM, Sep 12, 2013
and last updated 2013-09-12 10:29:28-04

Ludington, Mich.– A 19 year-old man accused of shooting and killing a Michigan State Trooper was expected to be formally charged with his murder, Thursday. Instead, Eric Knysz remains hospitalized for a gunshot wound and will not be arraigned just yet, according to Mason County District Court officials.

Knysz faces five felony charges including homicide/murder of a police officer, which carries a life sentence without parole. He’s accused of shooting and killing Trooper Paul Butterfield during a traffic stop, Monday evening.

Other charges include felony firearms, carrying a concealed weapon and stealing a vehicle. And, because Knysz is an habitual offender, having been convicted of a 2008 home invasion, an habitual offender second offense charge was also added.

Knysz’s pregnant wife, Sarah, 20, already had her first court appearance, Wednesday. She’s charged with accessory after the fact and stealing a vehicle. Both carry a five-year sentence.