Massachusetts High School Senior Charged with Random Killing of 68-Year-Old Woman

Anthony DeMayo, 18, faces murder charges after allegedly stabbing Janet Swallow in her home.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:06pm

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A Massachusetts high school senior has been charged with murder for the alleged random killing of a 68-year-old woman in her home. Anthony DeMayo, 18, was arrested after police found the victim, Janet Swallow, deceased in her Danvers residence. Authorities say there is no known connection between DeMayo and Swallow, describing the incident as a 'random' act of violence.

Why it matters

This case has shaken the local community, raising concerns about youth violence and the safety of residents, especially the elderly, in their own homes. It also highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such seemingly random and unprovoked attacks.

The details

According to authorities, police received a 911 call about a young man with a knife acting erratically in nearby Lynn. Officers found DeMayo holding a knife with what appeared to be blood on it, and he was taken to the hospital. A search of his home then led police to Swallow's residence, where they found her deceased. DeMayo will be arraigned on murder charges.

  • On Thursday afternoon, police received a 911 call about a young man with a knife in Lynn, Massachusetts.
  • Shortly after, police searched DeMayo's home and found the body of Janet Swallow in her Danvers residence.
  • DeMayo will be arraigned on murder charges on Friday in Salem District Court.

The players

Anthony DeMayo

An 18-year-old high school senior at Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody, Massachusetts, who has been charged with the murder of Janet Swallow.

Janet Swallow

A 68-year-old woman who was found deceased in her Danvers, Massachusetts home. She leaves behind two sons.

Paul Tucker

The Essex County District Attorney, who announced the charges against DeMayo and described the incident as a 'random' act of violence.

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What they’re saying

“This was a difficult case because of the randomness of this violence.”

— Paul Tucker, Essex County District Attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide on Friday whether to allow DeMayo to be released on bail pending his trial.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has left the community shaken and searching for answers, underscoring the need for greater understanding and prevention of random acts of violence, especially those involving young people.