New Jersey Man Charged With Brother's Gruesome Murder in Princeton Apartment

Matthew Hertgen allegedly killed his younger brother Joseph in a violent attack, with mental health struggles cited as a potential factor.

Matthew Hertgen, 31, is accused of killing his 26-year-old brother, Joseph Hertgen, using a knife and golf club in their family's upscale Princeton apartment on February 22.
Authorities discovered Joseph's body with severe injuries, including blunt force trauma and a large chest laceration, as well as evidence suggesting cannibalism involving his missing eye.
Matthew reportedly called 911 to report a fire and his brother's death, later telling police he experienced a 'fit of madness' and 'terrifying visions' leading up to the incident.
The suspect has a documented history of severe mental illness, with family members describing his deteriorating mental state in the years leading up to the attack.
Matthew Hertgen faces charges including first-degree murder, animal cruelty for killing the family cat, and weapons offenses, with his next court appearance scheduled for March 24.