Deputies arrested April Oliva, 40, on a charge of murder following the death of her daughter, Valerie, at a residence in the 5000 block of Nowling Drive.
Authorities said deputies responded around midnight Feb. 25 to a 911 call reporting a cutting incident at the home. When deputies arrived, they found Oliva lying near the child’s body in the family’s kitchen. The girl was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to the arrest report, investigators determined the child suffered more than 20 stab wounds.
The report also states Oliva contacted her sister prior to deputies arriving and was “not making much sense,” allegedly making comments about evil spirits and saying something bad has happened.
No other adults or children were inside the home at the time of the incident. Authorities say in the report that Oliva’s husband, and the child’s father, was out of town for work when the stabbing occurred.
Major Crimes Unit investigators assumed responsibility for the homicide investigation shortly after deputies arrived.
Oliva was transported to a local hospital for treatment for her injuries before a warrant was issued for her arrest in connection to her daughter’s death. Jail records show she was booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail around 8 a.m. Feb. 25.
Jail records show that she is being held without bond.
“This is a deeply tragic case, and our thoughts are with all those affected,” the agency said in a statement.
This investigation remains active and ongoing.
