Man in NJ Charged with Killing His Own Brother

Matthew Hertgen

Man in NJ Charged with Killing His Own Brother

According to Princeton Police Department, Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey announced Monday that a Princeton man has been charged with murder and other offenses related to the death of his younger brother.

In connection with the death of his 26-year-old brother Joseph Hertgen, Matthew Hertgen, 31, is accused of first-degree murder and several third- and fourth-degree weapons offenses involving the possession of a knife and a golf club. One count of third-degree animal cruelty is another charge against him.

The complaint claims that "Matthew purposely or knowingly engaged in conduct" that killed his younger brother and killed a cat that lived in the house, according to Marbrey.

A 911 call received by Princeton Police stated that there was a fire and a dead body in one of the residences within the Michelle Mews Apartments at approximately 11:16 p.m. on Saturday.

According to Marbrey, when police arrived at the scene, they discovered Joseph's body, which showed multiple injuries, including signs of blunt force trauma and lacerations, in the house with Matthew Hertgen, who was identified as the 911 caller.

At the scene, Joseph was declared deceased. Matthew was charged as a result of the subsequent investigation by the State Police Crime Scene Unit, the Princeton Police Department, and the Mercer County Homicide Task Force.

The results of an autopsy are still pending regarding Joseph's cause and manner of death.

Joseph Hertgen

Matthew Hertgen

The outcome of an autopsy will determine Joseph's cause and manner of death.

A fine of up to $200,000 and a sentence of 30 years to life in state prison are associated with first-degree murder. A fine of up to $15,000 and a sentence of three to five years in state prison are associated with third-degree offenses. In addition to a $10,000 fine, fourth-degree offenses are punishable by 18 months to three years in state prison.

The investigation is still ongoing. Sgt. Will Jett of the prosecutor's Homicide Task Force or Detective Karl Johnston can be reached at (609) 439-5248 if you have any information.