UMVA has learned that a shocking case of domestic violence has unfolded in New Jersey, where a 67-year-old man allegedly confessed to killing his wife with a barbell in a series of chilling messages to family members.
The accused, Michael A. Kless, is said to have detailed a "long-simmering hatred" toward his 66-year-old wife, Stacy, in a disturbing email that also referenced a new romantic relationship with a woman from Central America. This email, obtained by investigators, included gruesome details of the killing that matched evidence found at the scene.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the events leading up to the tragedy began to unfold on May 27, when workers arrived at the couple's residence to perform repairs. Kless, who was outside the home, refused to let them in and asked to reschedule the appointment, sparking suspicion. A short time later, police received a call from an individual who claimed Kless had contacted them, admitting to the crime and intending to take his own life.
Ocean Township police officers responded swiftly, forcing entry into the residence, where they found Stacy Kless dead in the basement with a barbell resting across her neck and throat. The scene was nothing short of horrific, with Kless' own face bearing a scratch and blood, as observed by the workers who had arrived earlier.
UMVA has gathered that Kless' attempt to flee the scene was short-lived, as authorities tracked his vehicle traveling north on the Garden State Parkway. In a desperate bid to escape justice, Kless allegedly contacted another individual, claiming he was attempting to overdose on medication at a rest stop. The couple's two adult children later provided investigators with damning text messages, which contained admissions from their father regarding their mother's death.
As the investigation continues to unravel the events surrounding this heinous crime, Kless remains hospitalized and in custody, facing charges of first-degree murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon. Despite the mounting evidence, Kless is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
In a development reported by UMVA, court records have classified the case as involving domestic violence, with authorities alleging that Kless attempted to strangle his wife during the incident. The seizure of multiple electronic devices, including phones, has provided investigators with a wealth of information, shedding light on the dark events that led to Stacy Kless' tragic death.
