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Man Arrested for Stabbing Estranged Wife on Valentine's Day

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Stephen Demaro, 62, was arrested for allegedly stabbing his estranged wife, Debora, to death on February 14, 2023, in San Juan Capistrano, California.
Police found Stephen with cuts on his arms after responding to a disturbance at their home, where they discovered Debora's body in the garage.
The couple had lived together in their $800,000 home for 26 years, despite their estrangement.
Authorities have not disclosed a motive, and Stephen is held on $1 million bail, with a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday.

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Story summary

Stephen Demaro, 62, was arrested for allegedly stabbing his estranged wife, Debora, to death on February 14, 2023, in San Juan Capistrano, California.
Police found Stephen with cuts on his arms after responding to a disturbance at their home, where they discovered Debora's body in the garage.
The couple had lived together in their $800,000 home for 26 years, despite their estrangement.
Authorities have not disclosed a motive, and Stephen is held on $1 million bail, with a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday.