Upper Darby Township, Pennsylvania — A quiet suburban home became the scene of a devastating tragedy early Tuesday morning after a father returned from work to find his 23-year-old daughter unresponsive and his wife holding a knife, according to police and court documents.
Authorities say the case involves a fatal stabbing, an injured family pet, an apparent suicide attempt, and disturbing statements allegedly made by the victim’s mother.
What Police Say Happened
According to a criminal complaint referenced by police, the victim, Daniele Grovola, 23, was found dead inside her bedroom in the family’s home in Upper Darby Township during the early morning hours of Tuesday, December 23.
Daniele’s father, John Grovola, was the person who called 911.
Police say John told investigators that he left work shortly before 5:30 a.m., stopped at a McDonald’s to buy breakfast for his wife and daughter, and then returned home — unaware that something was terribly wrong.
A Grisly Scene Inside the Home
When John entered the house, he immediately noticed blood on his clothes after the family dog approached him. According to the complaint, the dog appeared injured.
John then saw his wife, Diane Grovola, 57, sitting on the living room sofa while holding a knife. He told police she appeared calm but made alarming statements.
Investigators say Diane allegedly admitted to harming both the dog and their daughter, telling her husband:
“I stabbed our daughter.”
Discovery of Daniele Grovola
After hearing those words, John went to Daniele’s bedroom, where he found her lying on her back with her eyes open and unresponsive. The complaint states she showed no signs of life.
At 6:38 a.m., John called 911.
Police later determined that Daniele had suffered multiple stab wounds, including lacerations to her face, chest, legs, and back. Authorities believe she was already deceased by the time her father arrived home.
She was officially pronounced dead at 7:07 a.m.
Alleged Suicide Attempt and Chaos Before Police Arrival
While John was on the phone with emergency dispatchers, he told authorities that Diane allegedly attempted to take her own life.
According to the complaint, she stated she no longer wanted to live and stabbed herself in the chest. John also reported that she removed her clothing, threw the knife onto the floor, and began destroying items in the kitchen.
The 911 operator instructed John to leave the house for his own safety, which he did.
Police Encounter Inside the Residence
Officers from the Upper Darby Police Department arrived at the home shortly afterward.
They reported finding Diane naked, covered in blood, and refusing to comply with commands. She was taken into custody after officers secured the scene.
Police say Diane had multiple cuts on her body, which investigators later determined were self-inflicted.
A Chilling Statement to Officers
After being restrained, Diane allegedly made another disturbing remark to police.
“Sorry, I should have stabbed myself first,” she reportedly said, according to the criminal complaint.
Charges Filed Against the Mother
Diane Grovola has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including:
- First-degree murder
- Third-degree murder
- Criminal homicide
- Possession of an instrument of crime
She also faces aggravated cruelty to animals charges for allegedly stabbing the family dog. Police confirmed the dog survived and received veterinary treatment.
Diane is currently being held without bail, according to court records.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not publicly disclosed a motive for the killing, and investigators have not indicated whether there were prior domestic incidents at the residence.
The Upper Darby Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Daniele Grovola’s death as the case moves through the court system.
Conclusion
What began as a routine morning for one Pennsylvania family ended in unimaginable loss. Investigators say a father returned home expecting breakfast with his loved ones, only to be confronted with a fatal crime scene and a confession that would change his life forever.
As the legal process unfolds, the community is left grappling with the shock of a violent act inside a family home.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or violence, local crisis resources are available. Share your experiences or thoughts in the comments below.
