A 69-year-old Southern California man known for displaying pro-Trump memorabilia at his home has died after being beaten outside his residence. Kerry George Sheron, an Army veteran and supporter of former President Donald Trump, was attacked on May 20 near his Escondido home, dubbed the 'Trump House' by locals. He was pronounced dead on Sunday at a hospital, according to the Escondido Police Department.
Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, a Navy veteran from Escondido, was arrested in connection with the attack. Butler, who served as an information systems technician from 2011 to 2023, was booked on charges of attempted murder, elder abuse, criminal threats, and battery. He is being held without bail at the San Diego County Jail. The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case to determine if additional charges will be filed.
Sheron’s family described him as a kind and caring man who worked as a chef at local retirement homes. His wife, Maria Garcia, told ABC San Diego that he was a man of service and faith. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $40,500 to cover funeral expenses, with family members calling the attack 'brutal and unprovoked.'
The cause and manner of Sheron’s death are pending an autopsy by the San Diego County Medical Examiner. Butler pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on Friday, according to NBC San Diego. A bystander who intervened during the attack was also injured, police said.