In a heartbreaking turn of events, a Princeton man has been charged with the brutal murder of his younger brother, a former college soccer star, and the killing of a cat. According to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, authorities arrested 31-year-old Matthew Hertgen on February 22 after he allegedly attacked his 26-year-old brother, Joseph Hertgen, with a golf club and a knife.
Police responded to a chilling 911 call around 11:16 p.m. from the Michelle Mews Apartments complex in Princeton, where Matthew reportedly alerted authorities to a fire and a dead body. Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless body of Joseph Hertgen, bearing severe blunt force trauma and multiple lacerations. The suspect was found inside the residence, leading investigators to charge him with first-degree murder, multiple weapons offenses, and animal cruelty.
The shocking crime has left the community in disbelief. Both brothers had promising soccer careers—Matthew played at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, while Joseph was a standout player at the University of Michigan. The motive behind the alleged attack remains unclear, and local and state officials continue to investigate the gruesome homicide.
Joseph was pronounced dead at the scene, and an autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force.
This devastating case has shaken Princeton, a town known for its prestigious university and quiet community. As the investigation unfolds, many are left questioning what led to this tragic act of violence between two brothers.
