SIDNEY, Maine — A 39-year-old woman has been charged with murder following the death of a 14-year-old boy in Sidney.
Maine State Police say the incident unfolded early Friday morning when the woman, identified as Megan McDonald, arrived at the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office in Auburn at 5:27 a.m. to report an incident at her home on Summerhaven Road in Sidney.
Upon arriving at the scene, police discovered the body of the 14-year-old boy outside McDonald’s home.
Murder Charge Filed
After conducting interviews, Maine State Police arrested McDonald and charged her with murder around 1:45 p.m. on Friday. She was then taken to the Kennebec Correctional Facility to await further legal proceedings.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed that the boy’s cause of death was a combination of asphyxiation, manual strangulation, and a sharp force injury. The boy’s name has not yet been released, but officials from Messalonskee High School, where the victim attended, confirmed he was a student there.
School Community in Shock
Messalonskee High School Principal Scott Hallett expressed the grief felt by the school community in a statement. He said that the school was “devastated” by the news and would continue to provide support services to both students and staff during the difficult time. Hallett also noted that the school would offer ongoing resources to help everyone transition back to school after the holiday break.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss and will ensure that our students and staff receive the support they need,” said Hallett.
Neighbors React to Tragic Incident
Saturday morning, neighbors were still in shock over the tragic events. Many declined to speak on camera but expressed their disbelief that something like this could happen in their peaceful community. One neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous, described the incident as “unfathomable.”
“It’s just so shocking,” said another neighbor. “You never expect something like this in a neighborhood like ours.”
Ongoing Investigation
Maine State Police are continuing their investigation into the case, and authorities have not yet released further details. The investigation will determine whether McDonald will face additional charges or whether more individuals may be involved.
The community is still reeling from the loss, and the loss of such a young life has left everyone struggling to make sense of the tragedy.
Support for the Family
As the investigation continues, support is being offered to the boy’s family, though their names have not been released. Community members have also rallied together, offering condolences and support in the wake of this heartbreaking event.
“We are just all in disbelief. No one ever imagined this could happen here,” said a local resident. “Our hearts go out to the family and everyone affected by this.”
State Police Ask for Cooperation
Maine State Police have asked anyone with information about the incident or who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area to come forward. The investigation is still in its early stages, and authorities are working to piece together the details of what led to this tragedy.
This case has shaken the Sidney community, and authorities are committed to uncovering the truth behind the death of this young boy.