New Photos Released in Murder‑Suicide That Left Four Dead in Berkeley
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March 11, 2026New Photos Released in Murder‑Suicide That Left Four Dead in Berkeley
New Photos Released in Bayville Murder‑Suicide That Shook Ocean County
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ — Authorities have released new photos connected to the horrific murder‑suicide that unfolded early Tuesday morning in Bayville, shedding additional light on one of Ocean County’s most devastating domestic violence cases in recent years.
The tragedy occurred around 5 a.m. at a home on Fairwood Avenue, where investigators say 37‑year‑old Vaughn Stewart fatally shot three members of his family before turning the gun on himself.
🔎 What Investigators Have Confirmed
According to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office:
- Allan Russell, 61, and Michelle Russell, 60, the homeowners, were found dead inside the residence from gunshot wounds.
- Deonna Stewart, 38, was discovered approximately 50 yards from the home after being chased down the street and shot multiple times.
- The suspected shooter, Vaughn Stewart, was found inside the home with a self‑inflicted gunshot wound and later pronounced dead at Community Medical Center in Toms River.
- Three young children, shared by Vaughn and Deonna, were inside the home during the attack but were physically unharmed. They are now in the care of state child protection officials.
🆕 New Photos Released
Law enforcement has now released newly obtained photos of the individuals involved, providing the public with updated visual identification as the investigation continues. These images are part of the ongoing effort to document the timeline and relationships within the household.
Officials emphasize that the release of these photos is intended to support transparency as the community seeks answers.
🕵️ Background: Prior Charges Against the Shooter
Court records reveal that Vaughn Stewart had been recently charged with terroristic threats and simple assault in Union County just weeks before the killings. The case had been transferred to prosecutors as an indictable offense.
Investigators have not yet confirmed whether these earlier charges were connected to the victims.
🚨 No Ongoing Threat to the Public
Authorities stress that this was an isolated domestic incident, and there is no danger to the community. The investigation remains active, with additional details expected to be released in the coming days.
