A woman in Valparaiso, Indiana, has been arrested and charged with murder after allegedly cutting out her father's heart during a violent incident at his home on Sunday evening. Police identified the suspect as Serena Dolnics, 32, and the victim as her father, Gregory Dolnics, 70.
Officers were dispatched to the residence for a welfare check after family members expressed concern over unusual statements made by Serena Dolnics. While family members were on the phone with 911, Serena’s boyfriend reportedly sent messages stating he was at Gregory Dolnics' home and saw Serena covered in blood. He indicated that she had stabbed her father and appeared to be suicidal.
Upon arrival, officers found Serena Dolnics barricaded in a locked bedroom. A SWAT team was called to the scene, and a standoff ensued until her arrest around 9:45 p.m. Investigators discovered Gregory Dolnics' body inside the home with his heart removed and placed on his stomach. The victim also sustained multiple wounds to his head, hands, and arms.
Evidence recovered from the scene included three blood-covered knives. A coroner ruled the death a homicide by multiple sharp-force injuries. Serena Dolnics was taken to a hospital for injuries to her hand, which she claimed were from using yard tools. However, officers observed no gardening equipment on the property.
Dolnics pleaded not guilty to murder charges at her arraignment on Thursday. Court records indicate a history of legal issues, including charges for possession of methamphetamine and resisting law enforcement in April 2023, for which she received a suspended sentence and probation. She also had prior arrests in 2015 and 2016 related to driving offenses and public intoxication.
As of Friday, Dolnics was denied bail. The investigation into the alleged stabbing and mutilation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet established a motive. She is currently held without bail.
