Ashley Stewart Obituary, Oswego IL – Murder Death Report, Ryan D. Dodd Charged
OSWEGO, Illinois — The Oswego community is mourning the tragic death of Ashley Stewart, 41, who was fatally stabbed at her residence on Valentine Way on Tuesday, January 28, 2026. Stewart’s untimely passing has sent shockwaves through Oswego and surrounding communities, as family, friends, and neighbors grapple with the loss of a beloved wife, mother, and community member.
According to the Oswego Police Department, authorities were dispatched to the 400 block of Valentine Way at approximately 1:10 p.m. Tuesday following a 911 call from Stewart’s husband. The caller reported witnessing, via home surveillance footage, a man chasing Stewart into their garage. He indicated that he believed the individual was Stewart’s former husband, raising immediate concern for her safety. Upon arrival, Oswego police found Ashley Stewart unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect, identified as Ryan D. Dodd, 44, of Aurora, Illinois, has been charged with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, home invasion, armed violence, residential burglary, and aggravated stalking. Dodd was arrested on the same day and booked into the Kendall County Jail, where he remains in custody as of Thursday, authorities confirmed. The investigation into the circumstances of Stewart’s death is ongoing, with police urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Ashley Stewart was 41 years old and remembered by those who knew her as a loving family member, friend, and community contributor. While official public records do not provide extensive biographical details, Stewart’s impact on her family and community is evident through the outpouring of condolences, messages, and tributes shared in the wake of her death. Friends and neighbors describe her as warm, caring, and devoted, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and connection that will not be forgotten.
The fatal incident has drawn attention to issues of domestic violence, stalking, and personal safety, prompting local authorities to reiterate the importance of vigilance, reporting suspicious activity, and taking preventive measures to protect vulnerable individuals. Community leaders and law enforcement have expressed condolences to Stewart’s family and stressed the seriousness of the charges filed against Dodd, emphasizing the legal consequences for violent crimes.
Ashley Stewart is survived by her immediate family, including her husband, as well as extended relatives, who have asked for privacy during this profoundly difficult time. Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been publicly announced, but family members and friends are expected to hold private gatherings to honor Stewart’s life and memory. Community members are encouraged to offer support to her loved ones, whether through personal tributes, condolences, or contributions to charitable initiatives in her name.
The Oswego Police Department continues to investigate the case, reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with the Kendall County State’s Attorney’s Office to ensure a thorough legal process. Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with additional information regarding Stewart’s murder or related activities to contact Oswego police at their non-emergency number or reach out to Crime Stoppers.
Ashley Stewart’s tragic death serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the impact of violent crime on families and communities. Her life, though cut short, is remembered for the love, care, and positive influence she shared with those around her. Friends, family, and community members continue to mourn her loss while advocating for justice and safety within Oswego and the wider region.
