PRINCETON, NJ – A former college soccer standout from Princeton met a tragic end at the hands of his older brother, who is now facing charges of murder, authorities said.

Joseph Hertgen, 26, was discovered dead around 11:15 p.m. Saturday in the Michelle Mews complex in downtown Princeton, near Princeton University’s campus, according to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. Investigators allege that his brother, 31-year-old Matthew Hertgen, viciously attacked Joseph with a golf club and knife before setting the apartment ablaze.

Authorities walked onto a grim scene following a 911 call about a fire and a deceased person. Officers found Matthew Hertgen, who reportedly made the call, inside the residence, along with his brother’s body displaying severe trauma. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, and a deceased pet cat was also found in the apartment.

Following analyses conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force, Princeton Police Department, and New Jersey State Police Crime Scene Unit, Matthew Hertgen was charged with murder and multiple weapons offenses the same night. Officials allege he intentionally caused his brother’s death and killed his brother’s cat.

Joseph Hertgen had built a promising career as an investment portfolio manager at Locust Point Capital in Red Bank. As a high school soccer star, he played for Toms River North High School and later for the University of Michigan. His brother Matthew also played soccer at Wesleyan University in Connecticut.

An obituary posted online shared the profound impact of this tragedy, describing the family’s immense sorrow over the loss of Joseph Hertgen. “Joe’s life was tragically ended by an unimaginable act committed by his older brother,” it stated. “This devastating event has not only broken the Hertgen family but also echoes through the community, highlighting the critical need for addressing mental health and familial issues.”

Matthew Hertgen now faces legal battles on charges including first-degree murder, possession of a weapon, and animal cruelty. The official cause of death for Joseph Hertgen is pending, awaiting the outcome of an autopsy.

This incident has cast a shadow of grief and prompted serious reflection within the community, emphasizing the importance of mental health support and the prevention of familial violence.