Police arrested a suspect on attempted murder charges after the owner of a San Diego-area home adorned with Trump flags and other MAGA regalia was brutally attacked outside the well-known property.
Cops said Wednesday that they arrested Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, for attempted murder of an elderly man on Wednesday after responding to the corner of East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street in Escondido around 2:15 p.m..
The unidentified victim suffered significant injuries and was taken to the hospital. He’s listed in critical condition, police said.
Butler, of Escondido, fled the scene on foot before officers arrived but was nabbed nearby and taken into custody.
The alleged attacker had not been arraigned as of Thursday morning and is ineligible for bail, according to booking records. He faces life in prison if convicted on charges of felony first-degree attempted murder.
Locals have previously complained about the “Trump House” on Buchanan Street, with commentary online going back years — describing bizarre displays, confrontational behavior and over-the-top MAGA decor at the property.
Comments online indicate the home had become a target of hostility in the neighborhood.
“My buddy lived down the street from him. Whenever I went to visit I made sure to swing by that place and shout stuff at them,” one post read.
Butler’s next court appearance is schedules for Friday.
