ESCONDIDO—On Sunday, May 24, the Army Veteran, Kerry Sheron, who was severely beaten outside his Trump-themed home, died at the hospital following four days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).  According to reports, the suspect, Thomas Caleb Butler, has targeted Sheron in the past over Sheron’s political beliefs.

Butler remains in custody without bail.  His court date was scheduled for next week.  The initial charges were for Attempted First Degree Murder.  He is not eligible for Release.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Inmate Roster, Thomas Butler, 32 of Escondido, California,  was booked into Vista Detention Facility, 325 South Melrose Drive in Vista, California on May 21, at 2:35 p.m.

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On May 20, at approximately 2:15 p.m., Escondido Police Department (EPD) officers responded to a call of a violent assault on an elderly homeowner and Army veteran, Kerry Sheron, who resided near East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street. The suspect, later identified as Thomas Caleb Butler, fled on foot, leaving Sheron in critical condition. A witness attempting to protect his neighbor was also injured during the altercation.

Multiple reports indicate that Sheron was outside his front yard when Butler, who also lives in the neighborhood, approached and attacked the Army veteran. According to Sheron’s wife, “Maria” indicated her husband was attacked over his political beliefs.

Kerry and Maria Sheron had American flags hanging on his fence and Trump memorabilia decorating the yard and fence. He was transported to an area hospital, where he is listed in critical condition.

Surveillance footage helped police to positively identify the suspect as Thomas Butler. EPD officers at the scene placed evidence markers on the street and photographed Sheron’s pick-up truck with American flags on it. An image circulating on social media depicts a bloody footprint between the vehicles parked in the driveway.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Inmate Roster, Thomas Butler, 32 of Escondido, California, was booked into Vista Detention Facility, 325 South Melrose Drive in Vista, California on May 21, at 2:35 p.m.

Charges listed are Attempted First Degree Murder. Bail He is not eligible for Release. 

Anyone with details on this case is asked to call EPD at 760-839-4722 or Detective Patrick Hand at 760-839-4985.