Murder Charge Filed Against Suspect in Escondido 'Trump House' Owner's Death

VISTA, Calif. – A man accused of fatally attacking the owner of the so-called "Trump House" in Escondido failed to appear in court Wednesday on a newly filed murder charge.

Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, is charged in the May 20 assault on 69-year-old Kerry Sheron, a U.S. Army veteran whose home was known for its display of American flags and pro-President Donald Trump memorabilia.

Butler initially faced charges of attempted murder, elder abuse, making criminal threats, and battery, to which he pleaded not guilty last month. However, Sheron died in a hospital two days after that arraignment.

Prosecutors have since filed an amended complaint charging Butler with murder. If convicted on all counts, he faces up to 28 years to life in state prison.

Butler was scheduled for arraignment Wednesday, but the hearing was rescheduled for Friday morning. Authorities allege Butler punched Sheron, causing him to fall to the ground, and then struck him several more times.

A bystander who tried to intervene was also injured. Escondido police said the motive remains under investigation, including whether there was a political component, though no evidence has been found to support that.

Investigators are also looking into whether Butler and Sheron had any prior relationship. Butler remains in custody without bail.

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan stated, "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. 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." A GoFundMe page for Sheron's family describes him as "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."