At approximately 6:19 AM this morning, February 22, 2025, Lake Wales Police responded to the report of a stabbing at a residence on Ashton Palms Drive in Lake Wales. When officers arrived on scene, they located a 71-year-old man suffering from a stab wound to his chest. Officers rendered aid until the Lake Wales Fire Department and Polk County Fire Rescue arrived on scene. The victim was transported to Lake Wales Advent Health where he died from his injuries.
During the investigation, detectives were able to identify the suspect as 49-year-old Mihaela Mallenof Lake Wales who was taken into custody without incident. Mallen is being charged with second degree murder and will be held at the Polk County Jail.
Original Release:
The Lake Wales Police Department is on scene conducting a homicide investigation at a residence in the Lake Ashton community. This remains an active investigation and detectives are working to determine the circumstances surrounding theincident. The suspect is in custody at this time and there is no threat to the community.
Police will provide updates as more information becomes available.
