The Elkhart County Homicide Unit is investigating a fatal stabbing that occurred early Monday morning, February 16, 2026, in a residential neighborhood in Elkhart.
According to authorities, at approximately 3:37 a.m. Monday, the Elkhart City 911 Communications Center received a call reporting a stabbing at a home in the 1200 block of Chinaberry Drive.
Officers with the Elkhart Police Department responded and located an adult woman suffering from multiple apparent stab wounds. Medics from the Elkhart Fire Department provided emergency medical care before transporting her to a local hospital, where she later died.
Authorities identified the victim as Myrna Ugarte Gaona, 37, of Elkhart.
During the investigation, officers searched the surrounding area and located an adult male believed to be the suspect. He was found dead in a nearby creek bed. His cause of death has not yet been determined and remains under investigation.
The homicide unit was activated in accordance with protocol and continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials say the case appears to be isolated and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Elkhart County Homicide Unit at 574-295-2825.
