Elkhart County Homicide Unit Investigating Fatal Stabbing, Deceased Suspect Located

News Release-Elkhart County Homicide Unit Investigating Fatal Stabbing, Deceased Suspect Located, 2.16.26

The Elkhart County Homicide Unit is investigating a fatal stabbing that occurred earlier this morning in the 1200 block of Chinaberry Dr, Elkhart.

This morning, February 16, 2026, at about 3:37 a.m., the Elkhart City 911 Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a stabbing at a residence in the 1200 block of Chinaberry Dr. Elkhart Police Department officers and first responders dispatched and arrived shortly thereafter. Upon arrival, officers found an adult woman with multiple apparent stab wounds. Elkhart Fire Department Medics administered first aid and transported the victim to the hospital, where she subsequently died from her injuries. The victim has been identified as Myrna Ugarte Gaona, 37 years old of Elkhart.

During the investigation, officers searched for and located an adult male suspect, who was discovered deceased and lying in a creek bed in the area near the residence. At this time, his cause of death is undetermined, and will be part of the ongoing investigation.

The Elkhart County Homicide Unit was activated, per protocol, and is handling this investigation. This is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no further danger to the public. Anyone with further information can contact the Homicide Unit at 574-295-2825. All further inquiries regarding the status of the investigation should be also be directed to the Homicide Unit.

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