California Prosecutors File Murder Charge in Escondido Assault Case
California authorities have charged a suspect in connection with the death of the owner of a well-known house in Escondido, famous for its display of American and “Make America Great Again” flags.
On Wednesday, prosecutors announced they had amended the complaint against 32-year-old Navy veteran Thomas Caleb Butler.
Initially, on May 20, Butler faced charges including attempted murder, elder abuse, making criminal threats, and battery. He allegedly assaulted 69-year-old Army veteran Kerry Sheron outside Sheron’s home on East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street, striking him and causing him to fall before delivering additional blows while he was on the ground.
Butler pleaded not guilty to these charges during his arraignment on May 22.
However, the charges against him were later updated after Sheron succumbed to his injuries, passing away in the hospital on May 24 after being in critical condition for four days.
It was reported that Butler tried to escape after the incident but was apprehended by law enforcement about half a mile away on Begonia Street.
“The violent assault and murder of Kerry Sheron outside his own home has left his family and community shaken and grieving for the veteran’s senseless loss of life,” stated San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan. “My office has filed a murder charge along with related charges against the perpetrator and will seek justice and accountability under the law while providing support for the victim’s family. The investigation will continue to seek answers to the relevant aspects of this case.”
Following a canceled hearing on Wednesday, a new court date for Butler has been set for Friday at 8:30 a.m. PT at the Vista Superior Court.
If convicted, Butler could face a sentence ranging from 28 years to life in prison. He is currently held without bail at the San Diego County Jail.
A GoFundMe campaign for Sheron’s family, aimed at covering funeral expenses and other needs, has labeled the attack as “brutal and unprovoked.” As of Thursday afternoon, the campaign has raised over $59,000.
“Kerry was a proud U.S. Army veteran known in the community for proudly displaying American flags and patriotic decorations outside his home. His loss has devastated our family beyond words,” reads the description of the fundraiser.
