Princeton man accused of killing former star athlete brother, cat shared eerie poems on social media

In the quiet town of Princeton, New Jersey, a shocking tragedy unfolded, casting a shadow over its picturesque landscape. On February 22, a 911 call reported a fire and a dead body at the Michelle Mews Apartments complex. Upon arrival, police found Matthew Hertgen, a 31-year-old resident, at the scene alongside the body of his younger brother, Joseph Hertgen, 26. Joseph, a former college athlete, had succumbed to blunt force trauma and lacerations, marking a devastating end to a life filled with promise.

As investigators delved into Matthew’s background, they uncovered a troubling trail of social media activity. In the months preceding the tragedy, Matthew posted eerie and violent poems on Facebook. One from September 2024 described a graphic strangulation, while another from May 2024 hinted at a desire to “burn everything down.” These chilling words painted a picture of escalating distress and foreboding, contrasting sharply with Matthew’s earlier posts, which depicted a seemingly normal life of soccer games and friendly outings.

The Hertgen brothers had grown up with a shared passion for soccer, each distinguishing themselves at prestigious universities—Matthew at Wesleyan and Joseph at Michigan. Their bond, forged through sport and family ties, made the act of violence all the more shocking. The tragedy also extended to a family cat, whose death added a layer of complexity to the case, highlighting an unsettling escalation in behavior.

Authorities were met with a somber scene upon arrival, with Joseph pronounced dead at the site. The investigation, still ongoing, has revealed that Matthew faced charges of first-degree murder, weapons offenses, and animal cruelty. While the motive remains elusive, the brutal nature of the crime has left the community grappling for answers and seeking solace.

As the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office continues their inquiries, the emphasis on public involvement underscores the gravity of the situation. Residents are urged to contact investigators with any information, a testament to the collective effort needed to unravel the mystery. The charges against Matthew underscore the magnitude of the crime, leaving many to reflect on the fragile line between normalcy and tragedy.

In the aftermath of this tragic event, Princeton is left to mourn the loss of a young life and confront the unsettling questions it raises. The chilling social media posts, the violent acts, and the impact on the community serve as a poignant reminder of the shadows that can fall over even the brightest lives. As the town seeks healing and justice, the Hertgen brothers’ story becomes a tale of shattered potential and the enduring mystery of the human condition.