Posted on 05/21/2026 10:02:34 PM PDT by Signalman
Kerry Sheron, a 69-year-old Army veteran and owner of a residence in the San Diego area known locally as the “Trump House,” was critically injured in an assault near his home. His wife later told reporters that Sheron’s chances of recovery are slim to none.
Escondido police responded to reports of an assault in progress around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday. Upon arrival, officers found Sheron suffering from severe injuries, while a utility worker who intervened kept the suspect restrained.
Sheron was transported to a trauma center, where he remained in critical condition in the ICU as of Thursday evening.
Sheron’s wife stated that her husband is not expected to survive the injuries. In a statement, she described his chances of recovering as having “no hope” following the assault, according to a report from the New York Post.
The property owned by Sheron has become a local landmark due to its extensive displays of American flags, Trump-related memorabilia, and MAGA signage. According to Sheron’s Facebook page, the property experienced vandalism in March, including damaged flags.
The house is located in the Midway-East neighborhood of Escondido, which is part of the greater San Diego area.
Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, was arrested at the scene and booked into the Vista Detention Facility on charges of first-degree attempted murder. He is not eligible for bail and was scheduled for arraignment on Friday. If convicted, he faces the possibility of life in prison
Butler is a Navy veteran who served several years before becoming unemployed. A family friend described him as suffering from severe PTSD, noting that his condition was debilitating when not properly medicated. The friend portrayed Butler as someone who enjoyed activities like playing with Legos and Star Wars items, and said he experienced intense paranoia.
Butler lived only blocks away from Sheron’s residence.
According to the family friend, Butler had expressed that he “liked” the Trump House and supported President Donald Trump. He was also registered to vote as a republican.
Police have stated that they believe Butler did not know Sheron personally and that the attack does not appear to be politically motivated. The investigation is ongoing as of this report.
Thanks for That FRiend...
I served on a SAC AIRBASE,March AFB near River Side California. Many Soldiers came Back from Nam there and through out SoCal in the early ‘70s. The Toll put on those Soldiers was Palpable and still is.I meet them all the time. I was at My VA check up Yesterday and I go that extra bit to Help or be Friendly.I Salute You for being in a Group that directly Helps Them.
I apologize for being edgy
This incident and the two Boys shooting at the Mosque both Happened in My Backyard.
God Bless You FRiend
Much respect, brother. I was stationed at NAS North Island on the Indy from 88-90, missed desert shield. Then I returned from 96-07 as a civilian to San Diego. Went through done personal hell then, almost didn’t make it to the other side. My pop served in ‘Nam, grew up seeing the shite your brothers went through on the return home. Dad was a helluva guy, didn’t talk about what he did till after he retired and some of it got declassified. I’m very very fortunate I had the father I did, he didn’t bring it home with him. Peace my friend
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.