Stephen Clare faces the death penalty for the brutal April 2023 attack on his ex-wife Mariah Gardner and their young daughters in San Antonio, Texas, which resulted in the death of 11-month-old Willow Gardner. Court records and recent hearings indicate the case is advancing toward trial following delays.​
Case Background
Clare allegedly shot Gardner multiple times and stabbed daughters Rosalie (2) and Willow after chasing Gardner through their home, as captured on surveillance footage. The couple had divorced in late 2022 amid Clare’s reported stalking and controlling behavior, yet he retained shared custody. Gardner’s older sons escaped and alerted neighbors, leading to first responders saving her and Rosalie, both of whom underwent extensive surgeries.
Charges and Potential Penalty
Clare, now 53, is charged with capital murder of a child under 10, attempted capital murder of a child, aggravated assault with a weapon, and additional assault counts. Prosecutors seek the death penalty if convicted. No plea has been entered, per available records.
Recent Developments
A January 20, 2026, status conference before Judge Joel Perez in Bexar County’s 437th Criminal District Court focused on jail call recordings and trial scheduling. With another high-profile case (Brad Simpson) delayed, the judge pushed to expedite jury selection, which could take weeks. Earlier hearings noted Clare’s claimed memory loss of the incident and the recovery of the weapon.​
