Florida Woman Accused of Watching Newborn Drown, Burying Infant

Anne Mae Demegillo allegedly gave birth in a toilet, let the baby die, then went on to perform in a college play before burying the infant

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A 20-year-old Florida woman named Anne Mae Demegillo has been accused of giving birth to a baby in a toilet, watching the infant drown, and then burying the child in a shallow grave behind her home. Demegillo allegedly went on to perform in a college play before returning home to bury the baby.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences when new mothers do not seek help or utilize safe haven laws that allow them to surrender newborns without fear of prosecution. It also raises concerns about mental health support for young mothers and the need for greater awareness of resources available to those facing unplanned pregnancies.

The details

According to police, Demegillo gave birth to the baby girl around 3 a.m. on Friday and watched as the infant drowned in the toilet. She then allegedly put the baby in a duffel bag, hid it in a closet, and went to perform in a college play as the character "Virtue" in "Anything Goes". After returning home, Demegillo wrapped the infant in a blanket and buried the child in a shallow grave in her backyard. Authorities say the baby was born alive and weighed about 3 pounds 6 ounces.

  • Around 3 a.m. on Friday, Demegillo gave birth to the baby in the toilet.
  • Demegillo went to perform in a college play later that day.
  • After returning home, Demegillo buried the infant in a shallow grave behind her home.

The players

Anne Mae Demegillo

A 20-year-old Florida woman accused of giving birth to a baby, watching the infant drown in a toilet, and then burying the child in a shallow grave behind her home.

Flagler County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the case against Demegillo.

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What they’re saying

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy for our community, for the family involved, and an emotionally difficult case for our team. I want to remind our community, especially our expectant mothers: Florida law allows you to bring a child at birth to a local fire station, hospital or law enforcement agency and surrender the child. That is a much better solution than what we are investigating today — for everyone involved, but most importantly the infant who was prevented from the life they deserve. May God bless this infant and hold and comfort the baby in his loving hands with the love the baby never received on earth.”

— Sheriff Rick Staly, Flagler County Sheriff (Flagler County Sheriff's Office)

“Oddly calm. I watched some of the interview and I didn't see any remorse.”

— Chief Deputy Joseph Barile (Law&Crime)

What’s next

Demegillo is being held on $1 million bond and is facing charges of aggravated manslaughter of a child. The investigation is ongoing.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical need for greater mental health support, education, and access to safe haven resources for new and expectant mothers facing unplanned pregnancies. It serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences that can occur when mothers do not receive the help they need.