Michael A. Kless, 67, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of his wife, 66-year-old Stacy E. Kless, as announced by Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago. According to court records, Kless allegedly confessed to the killing in messages to family members and described a longstanding animosity towards her. Police received a call on May 27 at approximately 9:32 a.m. from a person reporting that Kless had said he killed his wife and intended to take his own life. A second call came 14 minutes later, indicating that Kless had sent an email admitting to the murder.
Investigators found the email contained details about the killing that matched evidence at the scene, including a reference to a new romantic relationship. Upon arrival at the couple's home, police discovered Stacy Kless deceased in the basement with a barbell on her neck and throat. Kless has also been charged with third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. He is currently hospitalized and in custody, with the case classified as involving domestic violence. Kless is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
