Aurora Man Charged with First-Degree Murder of Ex-Wife in Oswego

Authorities say Ryan D. Dodd followed and killed his former spouse with a knife inside her home.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:39pm

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A 44-year-old Aurora man has been charged with first-degree murder, home invasion, armed violence, residential burglary, and aggravated stalking in connection with the death of his ex-wife, Ashley A. Stewart, 41, in Oswego, Illinois. Police say Dodd followed Stewart to her home and killed her with a knife.

Why it matters

Domestic violence and stalking are serious issues that can tragically escalate to homicide. This case highlights the need for stronger protections and support systems for victims of abuse, as well as better monitoring and intervention for those exhibiting dangerous behaviors.

The details

According to police, a witness reported seeing a man run after Stewart as she entered her home on Tuesday afternoon. Officers responding to the scene found Stewart unresponsive and she was pronounced dead. Dodd was later apprehended and charged with Stewart's murder, as well as other related felonies. An autopsy determined that Stewart died from multiple sharp force injuries.

  • On Tuesday, January 28, 2026 around 1:10 p.m., police responded to a home in Oswego.
  • On Thursday, January 30, 2026, charges were filed against Ryan D. Dodd.

The players

Ryan D. Dodd

A 44-year-old man from Aurora, Illinois who is the ex-husband of the victim and has been charged with first-degree murder and other felonies in her death.

Ashley A. Stewart

A 41-year-old woman from Oswego, Illinois who was killed by her ex-husband inside her home.

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What’s next

Dodd is scheduled to appear in court on Friday, January 31, 2026 where a judge will determine if he should be held without bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical importance of addressing domestic violence and stalking behaviors before they turn deadly. Community members, law enforcement, and support services must work together to protect vulnerable individuals and intervene early when warning signs emerge.