Illinois Mother of Six Fatally Stabbed in Oswego Home; Ex-Husband Charged with Murder
Oswego Homicide Investigation Leads to First-Degree Murder Charges
OSWEGO, Ill. — A quiet suburban neighborhood was shattered by violence last week when 41-year-old Ashley Stewart, a mother of six, was found dead in her home. The Kendall County Coroner's Office confirmed she died from multiple sharp-force injuries.
Oswego Police Department reports indicate the incident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. on January 27. Stewart's current husband, Adam Stewart, alerted authorities after viewing home security footage showing a man—believed to be Ashley's ex-husband—following her into the family's garage.
"Responding officers discovered Stewart unresponsive at the scene," said Oswego Police Chief Jeff Burgner in a Thursday statement. "Despite immediate medical attention, she was pronounced dead by paramedics."
Within thirty minutes of the discovery, officers detained 44-year-old Ryan Dodd of nearby Aurora after spotting his vehicle on local roads. Police later announced Dodd—identified as the victim's ex-husband—had been charged with first-degree murder, home invasion, armed violence, residential burglary, and aggravated stalking.
A Community in Mourning
Friends and neighbors describe Stewart as a devoted parent whose loss has created profound grief. "Ashley was a beacon of light," longtime friend Robin Ross told ABC7 Chicago. "Her warmth touched everyone she met. She lived for her children."
A GoFundMe campaign organized for the family has highlighted the complex aftermath. Adam Stewart now faces single parenthood for their two-year-old son and the care of Ashley's other young children, who have lost both biological parents.
While police characterized the attack as an isolated incident with no ongoing public threat, investigators have asked residents to review security footage from the afternoon of January 27. Authorities also requested homeowners check garbage cans and yards for any suspicious items possibly discarded by the suspect.
Broader Context
Domestic violence experts note that separation periods often heighten risks for victims. "The most dangerous time for someone leaving a relationship is frequently after they've left," said Dr. Elena Martinez, a family violence researcher at the University of Illinois. "This tragedy underscores the critical need for robust protective systems and community awareness."
Dodd remains held without bond at Kendall County Jail awaiting preliminary hearings. If convicted of first-degree murder, he faces mandatory life imprisonment under Illinois law.
Community Voices
Michael Torres, Neighbor: "Ashley always had a smile when she picked up her kids from the bus stop. The whole street feels this loss. We're bringing meals to Adam and trying to help however we can."
Sarah Chen, Local Business Owner: "As a mother myself, this hits too close to home. We need better resources and education about domestic violence warning signs. This shouldn't keep happening."
David Fletcher, Community Advocate (sharper tone): "Another woman dead, another ex-husband with a knife, and another system that failed to prevent it. When will we start treating domestic violence like the epidemic it is? Thoughts and prayers won't save the next Ashley Stewart."
Rev. James Miller, Oswego Interfaith Council: "Our congregations are holding the family in prayer. We've established a support network for the children, who will need sustained care long after the headlines fade."
Editor's Note: The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) provides 24/7 confidential support in over 170 languages. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available.