Cannibal who ate brother’s eyeball found dead in jail

He also set the family cat on fire

A man who ate his brother's eyeball and set his cat on fire has been found dead aged 32.

Matthew Hertgen was found not guilty by reason of insanity after he was accused of murdering his brother and eating his eyeball.

Hertgen brutally attacked his brother, Joseph Hertgen, 26, with knives and a golf club. He then mutilated the corpse, and is accused of tearing out one of his eyeballs and eating it.

He also set fire to the family cat, before dialling 911 to report a body in the residence.

Hertgen anwered the door to the police, who arrested him at the scene.

In a trial last year, Hertgen was found not guilty by reason of insanity, after experts detailed how he had suffered with severe mental health struggles.

A doctor detailed how Hertgen had suffered from escalating psychosis and schizophrenia, which included apocalyptic beliefs and religious delusions.

Testimony detailed the onset of his schizophrenia in 2021, and how he tried to seek treatment.

Hertgen is said to have suffered a severe psychiatric break on the day of his brother's murder, when the pair had reportedly gone grocery shopping together.

Hertgen faced indefinite confinement in a psychiatric institution, rather than receiving a traditional murder conviction.

Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office said Hertgen was found dead in his cell on May 8, and his death is being reported as an apparent suicide, per NJ.com.

His obituary reads: "Growing up, Matthew is remembered as a caring and loving person. He was blessed with a large and extended family who he enjoyed spending time with.

"Matthew attended Wesleyan University in Connecticut where he played soccer and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in microbiology and biochemistry. He went on to work as VP in a senior finance capacity for a telecom company for many years.

"During his later years, Matthew struggled with severe and profound mental health issues; yet he expressed sorrow, remorse, and repentance in many ways. He departed with the love, friendship and forgiveness of his family and the eternal hope of salvation. May he rest in peace."

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, visit thecalmzone.net for tips and advice. You can also talk to Samaritans 24/7 by calling 116 123 for free or visiting the Samaritans website. Alternatively, you can find more information and advice on the NHS website.