Bishop Fenwick senior accused of killing Danvers woman faces Salem District Court arraignment Friday in murder case
Case centers on a Danvers home death described by prosecutors as a “random” attack
A Bishop Fenwick High School senior is scheduled to appear in Salem District Court on Friday on a murder charge in connection with the death of a woman found inside her Danvers home, authorities said. The court proceeding is expected to be the first public hearing in the case, where formal charges are read and conditions of release, if any, are addressed.
Investigators identified the victim as Janet Swallow, 68, a Danvers resident who lived on Amherst Street. The defendant was identified as Anthony DeMayo, 18, of Lynn. Prosecutors said the preliminary investigation indicates the two did not know each other and described the killing as an apparent random act.
What authorities have said about the investigation so far
Officials said DeMayo was located Thursday afternoon in Lynn after he was observed walking along a street while holding a knife that appeared to have blood on it. Authorities said he was taken to a hospital after acting erratically. He was later arrested and transported to the Salem police station.
Prosecutors said investigators executed a search warrant at DeMayo’s residence. They said information gathered during that search—combined with additional investigative methods—led law enforcement to Amherst Street in Danvers, where Swallow’s body was found.
Authorities have not publicly detailed the manner of death or a precise timeline for when Swallow was killed. They said the investigation remains active and that they believe the defendant acted alone.
Public safety and community response
Danvers police said Swallow was a longtime resident and that her family had been notified. Police leadership said there was no continuing threat to the public following the arrest.
Authorities described the case as a tragedy affecting the victim’s family, the town of Danvers, and the Bishop Fenwick community.
What to watch at arraignment
At arraignment, prosecutors typically outline allegations supporting the charge and may request bail or detention conditions. Defense counsel may argue for release terms, including conditions related to residence, travel, contact restrictions, or medical and mental-health care. The court may also set dates for future hearings and address evidence preservation orders.
The specific charge or charges filed, including whether any additional counts are added beyond murder
Any bail request or motion to hold the defendant pending further proceedings
Scheduling of probable-cause and pretrial events, and any orders affecting evidence and witness contact
The case is expected to proceed through the District Court’s early stages before any potential transfer to Superior Court, depending on prosecutorial decisions and charging posture.