Flagler County, Florida — A 20-year-old college student in Palm Coast has been arrested and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child after authorities say she gave birth at home and later buried the newborn in her backyard.
Investigators say the case began when a concerned individual contacted authorities after receiving messages from the student describing what had happened.
The investigation is ongoing as officials continue gathering details surrounding the incident.
Welfare check led deputies to the home
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a welfare check request early Friday morning after someone reported alarming messages from Anne Mae Demegillo, 20.
The caller reportedly told dispatchers that Demegillo had said she had secretly been pregnant and unexpectedly gave birth at home.
Authorities say the call to the Flagler County Emergency Communication Center came at around 4 a.m. Friday.
Deputies later arrived at Demegillo’s residence in Palm Coast to check on her welfare.
Investigators say baby was born in a toilet
During the welfare check, Demegillo allegedly told officers she had given birth the previous day while sitting on a toilet inside the home.
According to investigators, the newborn initially showed signs of life.
Officials say the infant cried after birth but later stopped moving.
Authorities allege that after the baby stopped responding, Demegillo placed the infant inside a duffel bag and hid it in a closet.
Investigators say she then continued with her regular daily activities.
Authorities say student later performed in theater show
According to law enforcement officials, Demegillo later left the home and went to her college.
Investigators say she participated in a local theater performance before returning home later that day.
Later that evening, authorities say she buried the baby in a shallow grave in the backyard of the residence.
Demegillo reportedly showed deputies where the infant had been buried during the investigation.
Officials said the newborn weighed 3 pounds and 6 ounces.
Arrest made and charges filed
Demegillo was taken into custody on March 6 and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child.
Authorities say the case remains under active investigation as detectives review additional evidence and witness statements.
Officials also noted that Demegillo allegedly told investigators she had not been certain she was pregnant until she gave birth.
Her first court appearance took place the following day.
According to court records, she is currently being held without bond.
Officials highlight Florida’s Safe Haven Law
During the press briefing, law enforcement officials reminded the public about Florida’s Safe Haven Law, which allows parents who cannot care for a newborn to safely surrender the child without facing criminal consequences.
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Under the law, newborns can be safely surrendered at fire stations, hospitals, or police stations.
Authorities say the law is designed to prevent tragedies involving newborn infants and to ensure babies can receive immediate medical care and protection.
Investigation ongoing
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office says detectives continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the case.
Officials are encouraging anyone with information that may assist the investigation to contact law enforcement.
Cases involving newborn deaths often involve medical examinations, forensic analysis, and detailed investigative review before final legal decisions are made.
What are your thoughts on Safe Haven laws and awareness programs meant to protect newborns? Share your perspective respectfully in the comments below.
