A 69-year-old San Diego homeowner known for displaying prominent pro-Trump and patriotic decorations was severely beaten Wednesday, with his wife telling reporters she does not expect him to survive the assault.
Police responded to reports of an assault in progress near East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street, adjacent to the victim’s heavily decorated residence. Officers found the man suffering from catastrophic injuries, and a utility worker who witnessed the attack helped restrain the suspect until authorities arrived.
The victim’s wife, Maria Garcia, described the severity of the situation to local media. “He tried to kill my husband, you know,” Garcia told CBS 8. “It’s terrible. I don’t know what kind of hate… what heart, the black heart.”
The Home and Possible Motive
The residence, widely known throughout San Diego as the “Trump House,” has been covered in American flags, patriotic symbols and pro-Trump displays for several years. Garcia suggested the visible political messaging may have motivated the attack.
The home has previously been the target of vandalism and complaints due to its highly visible political content. California Republican Rep. Darrell Issa called for action on social media, writing “Full and immediate investigation.”
Issa stated that President Trump’s supporters are “routinely the victims of leftist violence all across the country.” Investigators have not publicly confirmed whether politics played a role in the alleged attempted killing.
The Suspect and Investigation
The suspect, identified as Butler, fled the scene but was quickly apprehended by police and is being held without bail at the Vista Detention Facility in San Diego County. A friend of Butler told local media that the suspect is a Navy veteran experiencing serious mental health struggles.
The friend described Butler as increasingly paranoid, saying “He sits in his room and thinks everyone is coming to get him.” Police have not publicly declared an official motive for the attack.
The utility worker who intervened may have prevented a worse outcome, though the victim’s condition remains critical. Butler awaits further court proceedings as the investigation continues.