WASHINGTON, CT – A Connecticut woman facing murder charges in the drowning death of her 1-month-old son has been ordered held on $5 million bond following her arrest Wednesday, authorities said.
Sadie Fleming, 27, was charged with murder in connection with the June 8 death of her infant son. Connecticut State Police were initially called to Fleming’s apartment after she and the baby were reported missing by concerned family members.
After receiving a tip that a woman was seen wandering near a residential area, officers located Fleming walking alone on a roadway. She appeared soaking wet and in what police described as an “altered” mental state. When asked about her missing child, Fleming reportedly responded, “What baby?”
Approximately one hour later, the infant’s body was discovered in a nearby brook. A baby carrier and vape pen, both belonging to Fleming, were found submerged in the water near where the child’s body was located.
According to arrest documents, Fleming had been experiencing significant mental health issues in the days leading up to the tragedy. A person who made the missing person call told police that Fleming had been hearing voices and believed someone was trying to harm her.
Earlier that week, Fleming sought help through a telehealth appointment, reporting feelings of paranoia and mania. However, medical providers indicated they could not prescribe medication because she was breastfeeding. Despite being on other medications at the time, her condition appeared to deteriorate.
Fleming reportedly told investigators that on the morning of June 8, she woke up believing someone was out to kill her. Days before the incident, she had expressed fears that the “Illuminati” was pursuing her.
Court records reveal Fleming has a documented history of mental health struggles dating back to 2019, including an incident at the University of Connecticut where she was reportedly hearing voices, self-harming, and destroying property. She was previously committed to psychiatric care in 2023 following another incident involving state police.
The medical examiner confirmed the infant died from drowning. Fleming was scheduled for an in-person doctor’s appointment on June 9, one day after her son’s death.
The Department of Children and Families had an open case involving Fleming, and authorities said she had expressed concerns that her child would be taken away from her.
Fleming remains in custody awaiting trial.
