Janet Swallow Danvers, MA Death: Beloved Resident Has Died

Danvers, Massachusetts — The community of Danvers is in shock after the tragic death of Janet Swallow, a 68-year-old longtime resident, who was found dead inside her home on Amherst Street on a quiet Thursday afternoon. Authorities have charged 18-year-old Anthony DeMayo of Lynn with her murder after what police are describing as a random act of violence.

The investigation began when officers from Lynn responded to a 911 call reporting a young man walking on Standish Street carrying a knife. The knife appeared to have a reddish stain, and the young man, later identified as DeMayo, was acting in a manner that raised concerns. He was immediately taken to Salem Hospital for an evaluation.

Following the hospital visit, police executed a search warrant at DeMayo’s home in Lynn. During their search, investigators found evidence that led them to check on the welfare of Janet Swallow at her Danvers residence. Inside, they discovered her lifeless body. The medical examiner concluded that her injuries were consistent with homicide.

Swallow was a well-known and respected figure in Danvers. She was known for being quiet and independent, with a deep love for her community. She is survived by her two sons, and her death has left the town devastated. Neighbors and friends have expressed their shock and sadness over the loss of a woman they described as kind-hearted and dedicated to her family.

There is no known connection between DeMayo and Swallow, and authorities have emphasized that the crime appears to be entirely random. Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker addressed the public, stating that investigators are still piecing together what led to the attack. However, law enforcement has assured the community that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

DeMayo, a senior at Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody, was taken into custody at the hospital and is scheduled to be arraigned in Salem District Court. The school community is reportedly stunned by the charges, and officials have not yet commented publicly on the case.

As the town of Danvers mourns this unexpected loss, residents have been coming together to offer support to Swallow’s grieving family. Vigils are being held in her memory, and the randomness of the crime has left many feeling uneasy, but the community remains hopeful that justice will prevail.