OCEAN COUNTY — A New Jersey man who fatally shot three relatives before killing himself had a documented history of threats and domestic violence, including a restraining order filed years before the killings, according to reports and court records.
Authorities say Vaughn Stewart killed Allan Russell, Michelle Russell and Deonna Stewart in a violent incident that ended with his own death. Investigators and prior reporting from media outlets including Patch, indicate Stewart had a pattern of abusive behavior toward his estranged wife and her family.
Records show police were called to multiple domestic disputes involving Stewart between 2022 and 2025. In one 2024 incident, Stewart allegedly tried to prevent Deonna Stewart from going to work, grabbing at her while she was seated in a vehicle.
Following that encounter, Stewart was arrested and served with a temporary restraining order that had originally been issued in 2022, though it remains unclear why it had not been enforced sooner.
In another reported incident, Stewart forced his way into the Russell family home by repeatedly striking the door until it opened, causing it to hit Michelle Russell in the chest, according to police accounts.
Court documents also reveal Stewart had a criminal history dating back to 2017. He was acquitted of several charges, including aggravated assault with a knife and endangering the welfare of a child. Details surrounding those earlier cases were not immediately available.
The killings have drawn renewed attention to the history of domestic violence tied to the suspect, as well as questions about the timeline and enforcement of protective orders.
More details about the case and investigation have not yet been released.
