A 40-year-old Florida woman is in custody following the violent death of her young daughter in Milton. According to the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, April Oliva has been charged with murder after allegedly attacking 6-year-old Valerie Oliva with a kitchen knife late Tuesday night at a home on Nowling Drive.
Background
Authorities report that around 11:00 p.m., Oliva placed a disturbing call to her sister, speaking incoherently about evil spirits. During the call, Oliva made suggestive remarks that something terrible had happened, according to WEAR. Oliva’s sister contacted their father, Steven Tuttle, who rushed to the home where he found the front door unlocked and both mother and daughter on the floor, covered in blood. According to the arrest report, the mother repeatedly told her father, "She’s dead." Law enforcement arrived shortly after midnight Wednesday to find Oliva lying on top of her daughter’s body. At the time of the stabbing, the child’s father was out of town for business, and no other individuals were present in the household.
The Investigation
Fox 10 reported that in the home’s dining room, investigators recovered a kitchen knife that is believed to be the weapon used in the assault. Valerie succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The little girl suffered from more than 20 stab wounds covering her body, with several to her neck. Chief Deputy Randy Tifft identified injuries to Oliva’s stomach and neck as self-inflicted. Oliva was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of her self-inflicted wounds. Officials state that as soon as she is medically cleared for release, she will be booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail.
Key Takeaways
- April Oliva, 40, is charged with murder in the death of her 6-year-old daughter.
- The victim suffered more than 20 stab wounds, including several to her neck.
- The suspect was found with self-inflicted wounds on her stomach and neck.
What's Next
The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office described the event as a deeply tragic case and noted that the investigation remains active. Detectives are continuing to process evidence and conduct interviews. No information regarding a motive has been released.