Mother Finds Front Door Open and Makes Terrible Discovery While Picking Up Her Two Kids From Father’s House

Olivia Piccolo, a 29-year-old mother from Merritt Island, Florida, was scheduled to pick up her two children, aged five and seven, from their father, Joseph Dingwall, at his home in Cocoa on Wednesday, October 7. When she arrived, she tried to contact him multiple times to arrange the pickup, but he did not respond. After this, she went to the front door and found it slightly open. Inside, she made a shocking discovery that led her to call 911. Cocoa’s Mayor Michael C. Blake later encouraged the community to keep the family in their thoughts and to offer support during this difficult time.

The Cocoa Police Department reported that Olivia found her children, Aria and Remy Dingwall, deceased inside their father’s home. Joseph was also discovered unresponsive. Authorities believe he was responsible for the children’s deaths and that he used a firearm in the tragic incident. A neighbor reported hearing two gunshots around midnight. Surveillance footage from a neighbor showed a man leaving the house and pacing before going back inside, although it is unclear if this man was Joseph.

Cocoa Police Chief Evander Collier IV stated that there had been 11 calls for service to that address since 2021, covering various issues from medical assistance to suspicious behavior. One of the calls mentioned a mental health crisis, but it was not specified whether it was connected to Joseph or someone else living there.

Cheryl Trimmer, the children’s grandmother, expressed confusion over Joseph’s actions, noting that they had recently gone to a movie together and describing him as a loving father who got along well with his children.

In light of the tragedy, two fundraising efforts have been established to support Olivia Piccolo. One campaign highlighted the challenges she faces in dealing with her grief and the unexpected financial responsibilities following the loss of her children. The page noted expenses related to funerals and memorials, as well as the need for time off work to cope with her loss.

A fundraising page for the family described Remy as a strong, kind, and intelligent boy who enjoyed video games and music. Aria was characterized as a bright and compassionate girl who loved animals and the color pink. The family emphasized that the siblings were not just brother and sister, but best friends who should have had the opportunity to grow up together and create lasting memories.