Kerry Sheron, a 69-year-old U.S. Army veteran who owned a prominently decorated pro-Trump home in Escondido, California, died following an alleged assault outside his residence.

Police responded to an assault report Wednesday at approximately 2:15 p.m. near East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street, adjacent to Sheron’s property. Officers discovered Sheron suffering significant injuries, and a bystander who intervened during the incident was also hurt.

What Happened

Authorities arrested 32-year-old Thomas Caleb Butler and charged him with attempted murder in connection with the attack. Butler, a Navy veteran, is being held without bail at the Vista Detention Facility in San Diego County.

The assault involved repeated strikes to the head and jaw, according to law enforcement accounts. Police said Butler fled the scene but was apprehended shortly after.

The Victim and His Home

Sheron had decorated his Escondido residence for years with American flags, patriotic symbols, and pro-Trump displays, making it one of the region’s most recognizable private homes. The property has attracted both supporters and critics throughout the years.

His wife, Maria Garcia, told CBS 8 that she feared for her husband’s survival. “He tried to kill my husband,” she said, suggesting the attack was politically motivated.

Background on Suspect

Butler has struggled with serious mental health issues, according to a person who knows him. The acquaintance told the California Post that Butler had been medicated for mental illness but his condition deteriorated significantly.

The source described Butler as increasingly paranoid and noted he had been unemployed since leaving the Navy. Authorities have not officially declared a motive for the attack.