A man from New Jersey, Michael A. Kress, aged 67, has been charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing his wife, 66-year-old Stacey E. Kress. Court documents reveal that he confessed to the crime in a message to family, revealing a “long-standing hatred” for her, followed by a suicide attempt after the incident.
Police in Ocean Township received a call around 9:32 a.m. on May 27 from someone stating that Kress had confessed to killing his wife and was planning to take his own life. Shortly after, a second call came in, indicating that Kress had emailed a confession concerning his mother—though it was actually his wife.
Investigators examined the email, which detailed his grievances against Stacey and mentioned a new romantic interest from Central America. These details corresponded with the evidence found at the scene. Around 9:05 a.m. that day, workers scheduled to repair the home came across Kress outside, noticing scratches and blood on his face. He allegedly refused them entry and requested modifications to their plans.
When police arrived and forced their way into the home, they discovered Stacey Kress deceased in the basement. A barbell was found around her neck, and she was declared dead shortly thereafter.
Kress faces charges not only for murder but also for unlawful weapon possession, as the barbell has been identified as the weapon used in the crime. The incident has been classified as domestic violence, with authorities believing Kress attempted to strangle his wife.
Following the murder, Kress allegedly fled the scene, with investigators tracking him north on the Garden State Parkway. They found him unconscious in his vehicle at a rest stop, where he had reportedly tried to overdose. The couple’s two grown children later shared messages with investigators that included their father’s admission regarding their mother’s death.
Authorities have seized several electronic devices, including a phone, during the investigation. Currently, Kress remains in the hospital but is also held at the Monmouth County Jail. It’s important to note that he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
