According to the Princeton Police Department, Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey said on Monday that a Princeton man has been charged with murder and other felonies in connection with the death of his younger brother.
Matthew Hertgen, 31, is facing charges of first-degree murder and several weapons offenses in relation to the death of his 26-year-old brother, Joseph Hertgen. The weapons involved include a knife and a golf club. Additionally, Matthew is also charged with third-degree animal cruelty.
According to Marbrey, the complaint alleges that Matthew intentionally or knowingly engaged in conduct that resulted in the death of his younger brother and a cat that resided in the house.
At 11:16 p.m. on Saturday, Princeton Police received a 911 call reporting a fire and a dead body in one of the Michelle Mews Apartments homes.
According to Marbrey, when police got on the location, they discovered Joseph’s body, which had many injuries, including signs of blunt force trauma and lacerations, in the residence with Matthew Hertgen, who was identified as the 911 caller.
At the scene, Joseph was certified dead. Matthew was charged following a further investigation by the State Police Crime Scene Unit, Princeton Police Department, and Mercer County Homicide Task Force.
The autopsy reports for Joseph’s cause and manner of death are still pending.
The results of an autopsy will reveal Joseph’s cause and manner of death.
First-degree murder carries a fine of up to $200,000 and a state prison sentence ranging from 30 years to life. Third-degree offenses carry a maximum fine of $15,000 and a sentence of three to five years in state prison. Fourth-degree violations carry a $10,000 fine and 18 months to three years in state prison.
The probe is still ongoing. If you have any information, please contact Sgt. Will Jett from the prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force or Detective Karl Johnston at (609) 439-5248.