Tragic Incident in Princeton: A Brother’s Descent into Darkness
Matthew Hertgen, a 31-year-old Princeton resident, is at the center of a harrowing true crime case that has shaken the quiet town. He stands accused of murdering his younger brother, Joseph Hertgen, a former college athlete, and the family cat, using both a knife and a golf club. This grim incident has left the community reeling, as it unravels a tale of sibling bond turned deadly. Thecase is marked by eerie social media posts that Matthew shared months prior, hinting at a disturbed mental state and a descent into darkness.
Foreboding Social Media Posts: A Cry for Help or a Threat?
Matthew’s social media activity paints a chilling picture, as he posted poems and messages that were increasingly violent and erratic. In September 2024, he shared a poem on Facebook that spoke of sharpened knives and a heart pounding in fear. Another post from May 2024 revealed a deeper anguish, with questions about suffering and a desire to "burn everything down." These posts stand in stark contrast to his earlier, more mundane updates showcasing a normal life of soccer games and social gatherings. They raise questions about whether these were cries for help or ominous warnings of impending violence.
The Crime Scene and Arrest: A Night of Horror
The fateful night of February 22, 2024, saw Princeton police respond to a 911 call reporting a fire and a dead body at the Michelle Mews Apartments. Upon arrival, officers found Matthew Hertgen, who had made the call, alongside the lifeless body of his brother Joseph, who bore signs of blunt force trauma and lacerations. The autopsy results are pending, classifying the death as a homicide. This disturbing scene highlights the severity of the crime, leaving authorities to piece together the events of that tragic night.
The Hertgen Brothers: A Shared Athletic Legacy
Both Matthew and Joseph were once celebrated for their athletic prowess, with Matthew playing soccer at Wesleyan University and Joseph excelling at the University of Michigan. This shared legacy adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, as it underscores the brothers’ once-close bond and the tragic turn it took. Their lives, once filled with promise, now serve as a backstory to a crime that has left many questioning how such violence could erupt between siblings.
Police Investigation: Unraveling the Mystery
Authorities are still investigating the motives behind the crime, as Matthew faces charges including first-degree murder, weapons offenses, and animal cruelty. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office has not yet disclosed any possible motives, leaving the community in suspense. Detectives are urging anyone with information to contact Homicide Task Force Sgt. Will Jett or Det. Karl Johnson, as they seek to uncover the truth behind this shocking event.
A Community in Mourning: Reflections on a Tragedy
As Princeton grapples with this tragedy, it serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of human behavior and the signs that may hint at underlying turmoil. The case sparks reflection on the role of social media in revealing inner struggles and the importance of addressing mental health. The community mourns the loss of Joseph Hertgen, while also considering the broader implications of a crime that has left so many questions unanswered.
