You stumble on a headline that stops you cold: a mother allegedly stabbed her 6‑year‑old daughter more than 20 times and was found lying beside the child when police arrived. This piece gives the key facts about what happened, what investigators have released so far, and what to watch next in the legal process.
The article walks through the reported timeline of the attack, the condition of those involved, and official actions taken by law enforcement and prosecutors. It also outlines the immediate aftermath and the legal steps now unfolding, so you can understand the case beyond the sensational headline.
Details of the Stabbing Incident
The child, identified as Valerie Oliva, suffered multiple stab wounds at her Milton home. Authorities quickly named April Oliva as the suspect and began a homicide investigation led by the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office.
Timeline of Events Leading Up to the Attack
Deputies responded just after midnight to a 911 call reporting a cutting incident at a residence on Nowling Drive in Milton. Investigators say April Oliva was found at the scene lying next to her daughter; the call came from someone inside the home who reported a serious injury.
Law enforcement records and the arrest report indicate the child’s father was out of town for work at the time. April reportedly contacted her sister before deputies arrived and made statements that investigators described as disjointed, including mentions of “evil spirits.” The Major Crimes Unit took over the investigation shortly after initial deputies secured the scene.
Discovery by Family Members and Law Enforcement
Deputies entered the family kitchen and located Valerie’s body; she was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers found April nearby and transported her to a local hospital for treatment of injuries before booking her into the Santa Rosa County Jail without bond…