Former College Soccer Player Allegedly Kills Brother in 'Fit of Madness'

Matthew Hertgen, 31, is accused of murdering his younger brother Joseph in a Princeton apartment, with court documents revealing a history of severe mental illness and disturbing behavior.

Matthew Hertgen, 31, has been charged with first-degree murder and animal cruelty after allegedly killing his brother Joseph, 26, in a Princeton, New Jersey apartment on February 22, 2025.
Court documents describe a brutal attack involving a knife, golf club, and disturbing details such as the removal and alleged consumption of Joseph's eye, as well as the burning of the family cat.
Matthew's surviving brother had warned Joseph via text about Matthew's mental state, describing him as experiencing 'terrifying visions' and being 'extremely distressed' earlier that day.
Matthew, a former Wesleyan University soccer player, reportedly told police he went into a 'fit of madness' and has a documented history of severe mental illness spanning five years.
Matthew consented to pretrial detention during his court appearance on March 6, with his next hearing scheduled for March 24; he faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted.