Kerry Sheron, a Southern California Army veteran known for his heavily decorated home displaying patriotic symbols, is hospitalized with life-threatening injuries following a brutal assault outside his residence.
Police responded Wednesday to reports of an assault in progress near East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street in the area where Sheron’s home is located. Officers found the 69-year-old with catastrophic injuries when they arrived at the scene.
What Happened
Authorities said a utility worker who witnessed the attack intervened and helped restrain the suspect until police arrived. The bystander also sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Police arrested 32-year-old Thomas Caleb Butler at the scene. He has been charged with attempted murder and is being held without bail at the Vista Detention Facility in San Diego County.
The Family’s Response
Sheron’s wife, Maria Garcia, provided an update on her husband’s condition to reporters. “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.”
Garcia suggested the visible patriotic displays on the property may have contributed to the attack. “I don’t know why. I support America. My husband is [a] veteran,” she said.
The Suspect’s Background
A person familiar with Butler told the California Post that the suspect is a Navy veteran who has struggled with serious mental health issues. According to the source, Butler had been taking medication for mental illness, but his condition had deteriorated significantly.
The same source described Butler as increasingly paranoid and unstable. Butler had been unemployed following his service in the Navy, the person said.
Political Context
Sheron’s home has been a focal point in the community for years, attracting both supporters and critics due to its patriotic decorations. The property has previously been targeted by vandalism and complaints.
California Republican Rep. Darrell Issa called for swift action regarding the incident. “President Trump’s supporters are routinely the victims of leftist violence all across the country,” Issa said.
Police have not publicly declared a motive for the attack. Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the confrontation.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Digital Team contributed to this report.
