In a harrowing tale of survival and loss, Mariah Gardner is speaking out following the District Attorney's announcement to seek the death penalty against her ex-husband, Stephen Clare, for a brutal attack that took place nearly a year ago. On an frightful April day in 2023, Gardner was shot multiple times by Clare, who is also accused of the stabbing of his two young daughters, resulting tragically in the death of his 11-month-old, Willow.
As reported by KSAT, Gardner conveyed a complex mix of emotions over the DA's decision, emphasizing her need for justice, "It was important for me to know that he would be punished to the greatest extent of what the law allows, and I was very vocal with the DA’s office in terms of what I wanted." Clare faces capital murder, attempted capital murder, and aggravated assault charges with a deadly weapon.
The legal journey ahead promises to be drawn-out and difficult. Gardner, now confronted with the indelible trauma of that day, is bracing for a trial and a future marred by the memories of violence. "This is something that my children and I have been forced to live with every single day," Gardner told KSAT. "I will live with this trauma every single day for the rest of my life, and I will do whatever it takes to make sure that he is held accountable."
Alongside her ongoing grief and the PTSD she battles, Gardner is focused on helping her surviving children cope with their own trauma. She seeks to honor her late daughter's memory by celebrating life amidst their collective suffering, "We did survive, and I think if we can find a way to honor Willow while we also celebrate our survival, I think that’ll be the key to getting through it," said Gardner, finding solace in prayer. Clare's next hearing is slated for March 4, as the case continues to develop.
