New Jersey man accused of killing wife with barbell allegedly confessed in messages to relatives: report Michael A. Kless, 67, is charged with first-degree murder after allegedly killing his wife, Stacy E. Kless, with a barbell. He reportedly admitted to the crime in messages to family members, detailing a ‘long-simmering hatred’ and referencing a new relationship. Kless is also accused of attempting suicide after fleeing the scene.

• Michael A. Kless, 67, is accused of murdering his wife, Stacy E. Kless, 66, with a barbell.
• Court records indicate Kless allegedly admitted to the killing in messages to family members and detailed a ‘long-simmering hatred’ in an email.
• He reportedly fled the residence after the killing and later contacted an individual stating he was attempting suicide via medication overdose.
• Kless is charged with first-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon.
• Authorities classified the case as domestic violence, and Kless remains hospitalized in custody.