Kent, Ohio community is grieving the loss of one of its officers, Matthew Butcher also known as Officer Butcher, who passed away unexpectedly.
This unexpected loss has cast a shadow over the law enforcement community, leaving colleagues and community members grappling with the departure of a dedicated public servant.
Matthew Butcher passed away:
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Kent, Ohio community is grappling with the untimely passing of Officer Matt from Kent PD. He was a genuine person who was always ready to help others.
Matt’s sudden demise was announced by Payne Tawney in the following social media statement that reads,
Rest in peace Matthew Butcher or more commonly known as Officer Butcher, You helped out more people than I can count, me included. Was a guiding and supportive hand to a lot of people, you were especially loved by the younger generation of adults in Kent for always being there for us in Theodore Roosevelt High School. Thank you Officer Butcher rest easy!
Who was Matthew Butcher?
Matt was a police officer of Kent police department and Brimfield Police Department. He developed an interest in the other side of public safety while attending Kent. He attended fire school and earned his certification as an EMT.
In 2008, he joined the Portage County Water Rescue Team (PCWRT); and he became one of only four law enforcement officers to have been a member of the team. After earning his diving certification in 2009, Matt pursued training to become a shore responder and swift water diver. He was an invaluable member of the team that instructed PCWRT in the chain of custody for the retrieval of evidence.
Butcher, the 2014 CIT Officer of the Year, has an ability for building relationships with people that help them get past crisis and gain trust.
Matt Butcher has been involved in 16 incidents involving mental illness. It includes five suicide attempts and more than 50 calls to check on people in the community who are at risk, according to Lewis.
He has seven years of Kent police experience. He spent eight years working for the Brimfield Police Department in the past.
“The CIT skills have helped me almost daily,” Butcher stated earlier. “It has taught me that sometimes people just need somebody to listen to them and help guide them through crisis.”
A person who was using a knife to inflict serious wounds on himself was recently saved thanks to Butcher’s compassion for those going through difficult times. The person was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Matt was remembered for his kind and gentle nature, and his persistent commitment to helping others as we honor him.
Matt’s wife is also a member of Portage County Water Rescue Team. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.
Matt Butcher cause of death:
As the news of Matt’s passing reverberates through communities, the cause of his death remains shrouded in silence. The details surrounding the circumstances are yet to be disclosed, leaving friends, colleagues, and family members grappling with the mystery of his departure.
In this period of uncertainty, the outpouring of condolences stands as a comforting gesture, offering solace to Matt’s family and friends during a time marked by both sorrow and reflection.
He was known for his unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of those he served. He will be missed by his closed ones.
Matt Butcher Obituary:
Matt Butcher was a kind man who was more than a police officer, he made people laugh and feel good. His genuine nature and knack for connecting with others gave them a sense of uniqueness and value that was characteristic of his persona.
Since Matt’s passing, the love and support of the community have been immeasurable, and it is a constant reminder of the profound impact he had on everyone he encountered.
From his law enforcement colleagues to the families he served and protected, Matt was a source of comfort, joy, and friendship to everyone he encountered. Let’s cherish our recollections of Matt Butcher’s infectious laugh, and his kind nature and honor.
Tributes to Matthew Butcher:
Scott Myers posted,
Prayers for the family and friends of the kent pd and dive team
Teressa Lambert-welch wrote,
Sending prayers to his family and friends
Cindy R Anderson posted,
Thoughts and prayers to his loved ones
Alta Slaughter wrote,
Thoughts and Prayers Sent to you all
