KALUSH, Ukraine (BN24) — Ukrainian authorities have launched a murder investigation after a three-year-old girl was found dead in what police describe as a suspected ritual killing allegedly carried out by her mother in the western city of Kalush.
Yuliia Doloshytska, a 32-year-old graphic designer and artist, has been detained on suspicion of murdering her daughter, Alyna Petryv, following a series of disturbing events that have stunned residents of the Ivano-Frankivsk region. Police say the child was drowned and possibly stabbed after being forced to participate in a ritual intended to “expel evil spirits.”
According to investigators, Doloshytska picked up her daughter from nursery ahead of the incident and later dressed the toddler in a white dress and floral wreath, compelling her to recite phrases associated with ritual practices. Neighbors reported hearing screams during the night and contacted authorities.
When police arrived at the residence the following morning, they gained access using a key obtained from the landlord. Inside, they discovered the girl’s body in the bathtub. Early reports indicated signs of drowning, with some accounts also suggesting stab wounds.
“The woman did not offer any explanation for her actions,” police said in an official statement. “During the initial investigation, officers collected substantial evidence pointing to the premeditated involvement of the 32-year-old suspect in the child’s death.”
Doloshytska, who is divorced, had reportedly lived in the Czech Republic with her daughter during part of the ongoing war but returned to Ukraine approximately six weeks ago. She had been residing alone with the child in a rented apartment at the time of the killing.
The child’s father, who remains in the Czech Republic, has been informed of the tragedy. Alyna’s funeral, held at a local church, drew an outpouring of grief from the community. Mourners brought children’s toys, wreaths, and flowers to honor the slain girl.
Local outlet Kalush Informator described an emotional scene, quoting a mourner’s eulogy: “What a beautiful girl, what a horror! How is this possible?”
Police say the investigation is ongoing. The suspect has formally been informed of her status in the case and remains in custody pending further proceedings.
