Prosecutors reveal gruesome details in Mercer County courtroom as Princeton soccer player accused of murdering his brother and burning family cat

A chilling case involving a former Princeton soccer star accused of brutally killing his younger brother took center stage in court, leaving many shocked by the gruesome details.

First Court Appearance

Matthew Hertgen, 31, appeared virtually for his first court hearing on Thursday morning at Mercer County Court.

Wearing a blue anti-suicide smock, he looked dazed and remained silent throughout the 20-minute session.

His disheveled brown hair and unkempt beard added to his unsettling demeanor.

His attorney, Jason Matey, requested a one-week delay to review evidence and prepare for the case.

Assistant Prosecutor Tim McCann agreed to the postponement, and Judge Amber Gibbs scheduled the next hearing for Thursday, March 6, at 11 a.m.

Before concluding the session, Matey assured his client, saying, “Matt, I will see you Tuesday, March 4th. You can leave the booth.”

Shocking Allegations

Matthew is facing charges of first-degree murder, multiple weapons offenses, and animal cruelty.

Authorities accuse him of killing his 26-year-old brother, Joseph Hertgen, in a horrific attack on Saturday night.

Investigators believe he mutilated his sibling and even consumed one of his eyeballs.

A bloodied knife, plate, and fork were reportedly found near Joseph’s body, according to a source speaking to the New York Post.

Adding to the horror, Matthew is also accused of setting the family’s cat on fire.

The Crime Scene

Police were alerted after receiving a 911 call about a fire and a deceased individual inside an apartment at the Michelle Mews complex.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a gruesome scene—Joseph’s battered and cut-up body alongside the charred remains of the cat.

Matthew, who had made the 911 call himself, was present in the residence when authorities arrived.

Troubled Past

Reports indicate that Matthew, who once attended the prestigious Wesleyan University, struggled with schizophrenia and had been in and out of mental health facilities before the tragic incident.

His mental health history is expected to play a significant role as the case moves forward.

What Happens Next?

With the next hearing set for March 6, both the defense and prosecution will continue gathering evidence and preparing their arguments.

As more details emerge, the case raises unsettling questions about mental illness, violence, and the tragic downfall of a once-promising athlete.