Teenager admits to long-held desire to kill before fatally stabbing ICU nurse

An 18-year-old Massachusetts teenager, Anthony DeMayo, has been accused of fatally stabbing an ICU nurse, Janet Swallow, in a random attack after breaking into her home. DeMayo allegedly confessed to police that he had long desired to "kill someone." The incident occurred in Danvers, located about 25 miles north of Boston. Court documents obtained by Boston.com revealed that DeMayo, a senior at Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody, drove around neighboring communities before targeting Swallow's residence, breaking in, and carrying out the attack while she slept.

Following the stabbing, DeMayo returned to his Lynn home but was later spotted in the victim's neighborhood waving a large knife erratically. Concerned neighbors called the police, reporting his suspicious behavior. DeMayo confessed to authorities that he had committed the murder the night before. A subsequent search of his home yielded bloodstained clothing and cell phone data that led to the discovery of Swallow's body with multiple stab wounds in her bedroom.

The attack was deemed random, with no prior connection between the victim and the perpetrator. Authorities found no evidence of robbery and believe DeMayo acted alone in the crime. District Attorney Paul Tucker described the incident as a tragic and difficult case due to the senseless violence involved.

Janet Swallow, the victim, was a mother of two sons and worked as an ICU nurse at Lahey Hospital in Burlington. Colleagues remembered her as a cherished and esteemed employee who will be deeply missed. Chief Nursing Officer Scott James extended condolences to her family, loved ones, and colleagues during this challenging time.

Bishop Fenwick High School, where DeMayo was a student, is cooperating with law enforcement and providing counseling to students. DeMayo pleaded not guilty to murder and home invasion charges during his arraignment. He has been ordered to undergo a mental evaluation and is currently held without bail at Bridgewater State Hospital. A probable cause hearing is scheduled for April 1.