Michigan State Police Trooper Paul K. Butterfield II had a long history as a well-known and successful runner. However, he never ran from his duties protecting and serving the people of the state of Michigan. While on duty in Mason County on the evening of September 9, 2013, he initiated a routine traffic stop. A few moments later a passing motorist found Trooper Butterfield on the ground with a gunshot wound to the head. He was airlifted to a local hospital where he passed away from his injuries. He was 43 years old.