Florida Mother Accused of Fatal Stabbing of Six-Year-Old Daughter

A 40-year-old Florida woman, April Oliva, faces murder charges following the violent death of her 6-year-old daughter, Valerie Oliva, in Milton. Authorities from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office report that the incident occurred late Tuesday night at a residence on Nowling Drive. The child sustained over 20 stab wounds, including several to her neck, and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The tragic event unfolded after Oliva reportedly made a disturbing, incoherent phone call to her sister around 11:00 p.m., mentioning "evil spirits" and suggesting something terrible had happened. Concerned, Oliva's sister contacted their father, Steven Tuttle, who then rushed to the home. Tuttle discovered both April and Valerie on the floor, covered in blood, with April repeatedly stating, "She's dead."

Law enforcement arrived shortly after midnight on Wednesday, finding Oliva lying on top of her daughter's body. Investigators recovered a kitchen knife believed to be the weapon used in the assault from the dining room. Oliva also sustained self-inflicted wounds to her stomach and neck and was transported to a hospital for treatment. She will be booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail upon medical clearance, as the investigation remains active.