Veteran dies after assault, suspect arrested in Escondido

A 69-year-old U.S. Army veteran known for displaying American flags and political banners at his Escondido, California, home has died from injuries sustained in a violent assault last week. Kerry Sheron passed away on Sunday, May 24, after being hospitalized in critical condition since the attack on the afternoon of May 20.

According to the Escondido Police Department, officers responded to a report of an assault near the intersection of East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street and found Sheron suffering from significant head trauma. A bystander who attempted to intervene was also injured during the incident. Authorities arrested 32-year-old Thomas Caleb Butler a short distance from the scene.

Deputy District Attorney Ross Garcia described the assault as unprovoked, stating Sheron was punched once in the jaw, fell to the ground, and was then struck several more times in the head. Butler has been charged with attempted murder, elder abuse causing great bodily injury, battery, and making criminal threats. He pleaded not guilty during a court appearance last Friday and is being held without bail. Prosecutors stated they are reviewing the case and will consider upgrading the charges...