A Florida woman is facing serious charges after police say a late-night family argument escalated into gunfire — leaving her sister wounded and investigators searching for answers.
Magdalena Dybkowska, 34, a mother of three from Broward County, was arrested Monday and charged with attempted murder after authorities say she shot her sister during a confrontation at a home in North Lauderdale. The incident unfolded in the early hours of the morning and quickly drew attention due to the unusual details surrounding the case.
As first reported in coverage referenced by the New York Post, Dybkowska appeared smiling in her mugshot, which shows distinctive tattoos — including a small red heart under her eye and a “777” design on her neck — after being booked into the Broward County jail.
According to an arrest report, the violent altercation began inside the home the sisters shared. The victim’s boyfriend reportedly told investigators that he tried to break up a heated argument between the two women and move them outside to a couch in the backyard in an effort to calm things down.
But the situation quickly escalated.
Police say Dybkowska allegedly pulled out a handgun and shot her sister in the shoulder at close range during the dispute.
Authorities were first alerted to the incident when a nearby resident called 911 just before 4 a.m., reporting that she heard what sounded like a gunshot and saw a woman screaming across the street. The neighbor also reported that someone had been banging on her door before speeding away in a vehicle, leaving behind a backpack stained with blood.
When deputies arrived at the sisters’ home and knocked on the door, Dybkowska answered — and officers reportedly noticed blood on the floor inside the house. Investigators said she initially resisted being detained and had to be placed in handcuffs.
Meanwhile, the wounded sister later arrived at HCA Florida Woodmont Hospital in Tamarac with a gunshot wound. Police say the victim later told their mother that Dybkowska had shot her during the argument.
The motive behind the dispute remains unclear. Both sisters have reportedly declined to provide police with further details about what led to the shooting.
Dybkowska’s three children were found inside the home unharmed. Authorities say the children later told officers they had discovered blood on the backyard couch where the altercation occurred.
Child welfare officials have since taken custody of the children as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, Dybkowska remains behind bars facing charges of attempted murder and resisting arrest.
