On November 14, 2025, Trenton will observe the 18th anniversary of the tragic murder of Jerry Eure, Sr., an esteemed member of the community and a veteran of the Tuskegee Airmen. Eure, 84, was brutally attacked in his home at 924 Edgewood Avenue, a case that has left an indelible mark on the local community.
In the early hours of that fateful night, two teenage cousins, Anthony Bethea and William Bethea, broke into Eure’s residence. Following a violent confrontation, they robbed him of $600, a laptop, and a cell phone before fleeing the scene in his old Chevrolet Impala. The investigation revealed that the younger Bethea assaulted Eure with his fists and a pipe, ultimately leading to his death from multiple stab wounds.
The incident shocked not only the family but the wider community, prompting responses from local leaders. Trenton Mayor Douglas H. Palmer and Mercer County Prosecutor Joseph Bocchini expressed their condolences and commitment to justice. In a heartfelt statement, Eure’s daughter, Sherri Eure Washington, reflected on the senseless act that robbed them of a loving husband and father, stating, “These two young men’s selfish, heinous act took away the life of a wonderful, caring, and loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother.”
Eure’s legacy is significant. He graduated from West Virginia State College, Rutgers University, and earned a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. His community involvement spanned numerous organizations, including the NAACP and the Trenton Kiwanis. A dedicated member of the Covenant Baptist Church, he fostered a deep faith and connection within his community. His military career is equally notable; as a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, he contributed to the fight for equality in the U.S. armed forces, serving honorably during World War II.
Eure’s murder was not just a tragic statistic but a deeply personal loss for those who knew him. The investigation into his killing led to the capture of the Bethea cousins, who were subsequently sentenced to significant prison time—50 years for Anthony and 45 years for William, who had a lengthy history of criminal activity starting at a young age.
The circumstances surrounding Eure’s murder evoke not only sorrow but also a sense of disbelief. The image of an esteemed veteran being attacked by young men he had previously aided underscores a painful reality. As the community prepares to remember Eure, the echoes of his life resonate with many, reminding them of the fragility of life and the importance of compassion.
As tears flow for the loss of a remarkable individual, one cannot help but reflect on the words of Psalm 22: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This sentiment captures the anguish felt by many in Trenton, who continue to grapple with the impact of violence on their streets.
Eure’s story serves as a reminder of the strength of community and the enduring hope for justice, even as the memory of his life is celebrated in the face of such tragedy.
