A 41-year-old woman was stabbed to death inside her home in Oswego, Illinois, after her ex-partner broke into the property and fatally attacked her, authorities said.

The victim was identified as Ashley Stewart, a mother of six. Her current husband, Adam Stewart, called 911 after watching live footage on their home security cameras as a man—whom he identified as his wife's ex—chased her into the garage. The attack occurred Tuesday around 1:00 p.m., about an hour from Chicago. When Oswego Police Department officers arrived at the scene, Ashley was unresponsive and pronounced dead from multiple stab wounds. The alleged assailant, Ryan Dodd, 44, was arrested about 30 minutes later with the help of surveillance drones and K-9 units, authorities said. Police located his vehicle, conducted a traffic stop, and took him into custody without incident.

According to the preliminary investigation, Dodd allegedly followed the victim to their residence, trespassed, and committed the attack with a knife.

Pre-crime images

Police released photographs showing Dodd hiding in bushes, apparently surveilling the victim's home moments before the homicide. In the images, he is seen wearing a black jacket, gray scarf, hat, and his face is partially covered, standing in the snow-covered yard.

An image of his gray SUV was also shared on social media as the public's help was requested in locating him.

Family and community impact

It has not been specified how long Ashley Stewart and Ryan Dodd were married or when their divorce occurred. The former couple had several children together, who are now without either of their biological parents.as indicated in a GoFundMe campaign created to support the family.

Ashley also had a two-year-old son with her current husband.

“She was a devoted wife and a loving mother. Her loss has left an immeasurable void,” states the fundraising page, which as of Monday had raised over $52,000.

Friends and acquaintances remembered Ashley as a woman committed to her family and the birthing community, where she served as a doula.

“She deeply loved her children. No one could doubt the love she put into her family,” her friend Robin Ross told NBC Chicago.

Criminal Charges

Ryan Dodd faces multiple charges, including: first-degree murder, home invasion, armed violence, residential burglary, and aggravated stalking.

The defendant made his initial court appearance on Friday and remains in custody at the county jail Kendall. Her next court hearing is scheduled for February 9, according to court records.