Burlington County Man Charged With Murder In Stepfather's Fatal Stabbing

A 43-year-old Burlington County man has been arrested and charged in the fatal stabbing of his stepfather, Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina and Burlington City Police Chief Alan Snow announced on Wednesday.

Stephen J. Paul, of Burlington City, was charged with murder in the first-degree, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. He is being detained in the Burlington County Jail pending an appearance in Superior Court.

Police were called to Paul’s apartment at about 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday by a relative who believed 70-year-old Edward Williams was inside. Paul wouldn’t allow the caller inside, but he did allow police to enter the apartment.

Once inside, police say they found Williams, who had suffered several lacerations to his upper body. Williams, a Westampton resident, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police found a knife they believe was used in the attack inside the apartment. Paul was arrested without incident. The motive remains under investigation. An autopsy was scheduled for Wednesday.

The attached image of Stephen J. Paul was provided by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office