A man from New Jersey, Michael A. Kless, 67, has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly killing his 66-year-old wife, Stacy E. Kless. The Monmouth County Prosecutor, Raymond S. Santiago, made the announcement last Friday.
Court records reveal Kless admitted to the crime in messages to family members. An email showed his prolonged hostility towards his wife and detailed a new relationship with a woman from Central America. The email’s content aligned with evidence from the crime scene.
Incident Details
Authorities received multiple calls on May 27. The first call came at 9:32 a.m. from a person recounting Kless’s confession about the murder and his intent to commit suicide. A second caller reported receiving an email from Kless, admitting the crime.
“Long-simmering hatred” described towards his wife in his emails.
Repair workers at the residence around 9:05 a.m. found Kless outside showing signs of injury, including a scratch and blood on his face. He refused entry and asked to reschedule their appointment.
Discovery and Charges
Police arrived at the Seward Drive home, forced entry, and found Stacy Kless deceased in the basement. A barbell lay across her neck and throat. She was declared dead that morning. Alongside murder, Kless faces charges of third-degree possession and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, identified as a barbell.
Court records outline domestic violence aspects, with Kless allegedly attempting to strangle the victim during the incident. After the murder, Kless reportedly fled and was found unconscious at a rest stop after trying to overdose on medication.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The couple’s adult children provided text messages from Kless admitting to the murder. Investigators have seized several electronic devices, including phones. Kless remains in a hospital under custody at Monmouth County Jail.
Prosecutor Santiago underscored Kless’s presumption of innocence until proven guilty in court.