High School Student Arrested in Woman's Death Had Chilling Motive

A Massachusetts high school student, Anthony DeMayo, has been charged with the murder of Janet Swallow after he was seen walking with a knife allegedly stained with blood.

Incident Details

Anthony DeMayo, a senior at Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody, allegedly killed Janet Swallow at her home in Danvers on March 12. Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker stated that the attack appeared to be random and there was no connection between DeMayo and Swallow.

Authorities found Swallow’s body after police were alerted to DeMayo carrying a knife on a local street. Officers noticed the knife had a stain resembling blood.

Investigation and Arrest

Due to DeMayo's erratic behavior, he was taken to Salem hospital. Evidence led police to Swallow's home where her body was found. At the hospital, DeMayo was arrested for murder.

Court documents revealed that DeMayo admitted his involvement to police and expressed a long-held desire to kill someone.

Legal Proceedings

It is unclear if DeMayo has legal representation. He reportedly broke into Swallow's home through a window and attacked her while she slept.

The president of Bishop Fenwick High School stated that the school is cooperating with law enforcement during this investigation. DeMayo was scheduled for arraignment on March 13.