80-Year-Old Man Charged After Domestic Shooting in Rockwall

Rockwall police allege that an elderly couple’s home on the 600 block of Stafford Circle was the scene of a domestic shooting on Dec. 26, 2025. Authorities say officers found the injured 72-year-old woman inside the residence; she was transported to a hospital and described as being in critical condition by responding personnel. An arrest-warrant affidavit filed in the case identifies the suspect as 80-year-old Stephen Boewe.

According to the affidavit, Boewe went to a neighbor’s house to report the incident. The neighbor then checked on the woman and called 911. The affidavit also reports that shortly before the shooting Boewe told a neighbor, "it was either him or her." Rockwall police arrested Boewe and booked him into the Rockwall County jail.

Boewe faces a first-degree felony charge of aggravated assault with family violence. Bail records showed a $1 million bond as of Dec. 26, 2025. Court processing and any upcoming hearings will take place through the Rockwall County judicial system as the case moves forward.

The incident has drawn concern in the local community, where neighbors say quiet residential streets are expected to be safe havens for older residents. Domestic violence can affect people of any age, and an alleged incident involving an elderly couple raises questions about support services, caregiver stress, and how neighbors and local agencies can better detect and respond to signs of escalating abuse.

For Rockwall residents, the immediate implications are practical: increased police presence in the neighborhood during the investigation and the possibility of court proceedings that will be held locally. Authorities investigating the case will be seeking additional information and witnesses who may have observed activity in the area on Dec. 26. Anyone with information relevant to the incident is encouraged to contact the Rockwall Police Department.

As the legal process continues, the community will be watching for updates on the victim’s condition and for official statements from prosecutors about charges and next steps. This case highlights ongoing public safety priorities for Rockwall County: protecting vulnerable residents, encouraging rapid reporting of suspected violence, and ensuring access to help for those at risk.