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Palm Coast Today
By the People, for the People
Florida Woman Accused of Newborn Drowning, Burial
Anne Mae Demegillo charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child after allegedly letting her newborn drown in toilet and burying the baby in her backyard
Published on Mar. 10, 2026
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A 20-year-old Florida woman named Anne Mae Demegillo has been arrested and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child after she allegedly gave birth to a baby in her bathroom toilet, let the infant drown, and then buried the body in a shallow grave in her backyard. Authorities were alerted after Demegillo sent text messages saying she had unexpectedly given birth and done something to the infant.
Why it matters
This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and access to resources for new mothers, especially those who may be experiencing mental health challenges or lack of support. Florida's Safe Haven law provides a legal way for parents to surrender newborns, but Demegillo allegedly chose a horrific alternative that resulted in the death of her child.
The details
According to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office, someone called authorities requesting a welfare check on Demegillo around 4 a.m. on March 6. Demegillo told deputies she wasn't sure she was pregnant, but began experiencing severe pain overnight and delivered the baby in her toilet. She claimed she thought the infant was dead, so she hid the body in a duffel bag and went about her day. When she returned home, she allegedly buried the newborn in a shallow grave in her backyard. Detectives determined Demegillo "knowingly and purposefully allowed the newborn to drown in the toilet."
- On March 6, 2026, around 4 a.m., someone called authorities requesting a welfare check on Demegillo.
- Later on March 6, Demegillo allegedly buried the newborn in a shallow grave in her backyard.
The players
Anne Mae Demegillo
A 20-year-old Florida woman who has been charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child after allegedly letting her newborn drown in a toilet and burying the baby in her backyard.
Flagler County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency that investigated the case and arrested Demegillo.
What they’re saying
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy for our community, for the family involved, and an emotionally difficult case for them.”
— Sheriff Rick Staly, Flagler County Sheriff
“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
What’s next
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact the Flagler County Sheriff's Office.
The takeaway
This tragic case underscores the importance of providing resources and support for new mothers, especially those who may be experiencing mental health challenges or lack of support. Florida's Safe Haven law offers a legal way for parents to surrender newborns, but more can be done to raise awareness and ensure all mothers have access to the help they need.
