Brother Kills Ex-Athlete Sibling, Cat With Golf Club, Knife

Matthew Hertgen, a 31-year-old man from Princeton, New Jersey, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his 26-year-old brother, Joseph Hertgen. Authorities allege that Hertgen killed his brother with a knife and a golf club, and also caused the death of a family cat.

According to the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office, officers responded to a 911 call reporting a fire and a dead body at the Michelle Mews Apartments complex on February 22 around 11:16 p.m. Upon arrival, they found Matthew Hertgen in the residence along with the body of Joseph Hertgen, who exhibited signs of blunt force trauma and lacerations.

Eerie Social Media Posts

Prior to the alleged murder, Matthew Hertgen posted several disturbing poems on social media that hinted at violence. In a September 2024 Facebook post, he wrote: "Who are you trying to strangle? And what god are you serving?" The poem goes on to describe a bloody strangulation, escalating in its graphic content.

Another poem published by Hertgen in May 2024 expressed themes of suffering and pain. He wrote: "Do you like to watch me suffer? Do you like to crush me with pain? Do you like to hear me moan? Now what is it that you want me to do this time? Do you want me to burn everything down?"

Past Social Media Presence

In contrast to his recent posts, Hertgen's social media presence a decade ago appeared more normal. Photos from that period showed him engaging in activities like playing soccer with friends.

College Soccer Background

Both brothers had a background in college soccer. Matthew played at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, while Joseph competed for the University of Michigan.

Ongoing Investigation

Local and state officials are conducting a thorough investigation into Joseph Hertgen's death. An autopsy has been performed, but the results are pending. Authorities have yet to disclose any potential motive behind the alleged crime.

Community Impact

The news of this tragic event has deeply shaken the community of Princeton, a wealthy New Jersey town known for its prestigious educational institutions and residential neighborhoods near Ivy League schools. The residents are grappling with the shocking nature of the crime and expressing their condolences to the family affected by this loss.

Call for Information

Mercer County authorities are urging anyone with information related to the alleged crime to come forward. Sergeant Will Jett of the Homicide Task Force can be reached at 609-331-5010, and Detective Karl Johnson can be contacted at 609-439-5258.