An 18-year-old high school senior has been charged with murder in the death of a 68-year-old woman in Danvers, Massachusetts, in what authorities are describing as a random act of violence.
The victim, Janet Swallow, was found dead inside her Amherst Street home on Thursday. Police later arrested Anthony DeMayo, 18, of Lynn, in connection with the killing. Officials say there was no known relationship between DeMayo and Swallow.
Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker said investigators believe the attack was random, emphasizing that there was no prior connection between the suspect and the victim.
The investigation began Thursday afternoon when Lynn police received a 911 call reporting a man walking along Standish Road with a knife. Officers responding to the scene identified the individual as DeMayo. Police observed what appeared to be a reddish-brown substance on the knife consistent with blood. Due to what authorities described as erratic behavior, DeMayo was transported to Salem Hospital for evaluation.
Subsequently, investigators obtained a search warrant for DeMayo’s residence in Lynn. Evidence recovered there led authorities to 17 Amherst Street in Danvers, where state and local police entered the home and discovered Swallow deceased with injuries consistent with homicide.
Officials stated that they believe DeMayo acted alone. He was taken into custody at the hospital and later transferred to the Danvers Police Department.
District Attorney Tucker described the case as especially troubling because of the apparent randomness of the violence. Authorities have indicated that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Danvers Police Chief James Lovell confirmed that Swallow’s family, including her two sons, has been notified. He expressed condolences on behalf of the department and the community during what he called a devastating time for the family and the town.
DeMayo is scheduled to be arraigned in Salem District Court, where additional details about the case are expected to be presented. The investigation remains active.
