Tragic Incident: Mother Experiencing Auditory Hallucinations Drowns Infant Son in Brook

A Connecticut woman has been formally charged with murder following the tragic drowning of her infant son in June, authorities announced on Wednesday.

On June 8, law enforcement was summoned to an apartment after Sadie Fleming, 27, and her one-month-old son were reported missing. The situation escalated after a resident informed police of a woman wandering near their home, leading officers to Fleming, who reportedly responded, “What baby?” when questioned about her missing child, as reported by The Darien Times.

According to state police, Fleming was found drenched and appeared to be in an altered mental state. She was located walking alone on a road approximately an hour before her infant son was discovered drowned in a nearby brook, as reported by WFSB.

The individual who reported Fleming missing indicated that she had been experiencing auditory hallucinations and believed she was being pursued. Earlier in the week, Fleming had attempted to schedule a telehealth appointment due to feelings of paranoia and mania. However, medical professionals were unable to prescribe medication because she was breastfeeding, according to WFSB.

Authorities also noted that Fleming was taking several medications at the time of the incident. The arrest report revealed that she had an active case with the Department of Children and Families. Police suggested that Fleming was concerned about her son being taken from her, as per WFSB’s report.

Additionally, a doctor said two days before the murder that she appeared “more organized” and “showed more interest in her baby.”

A baby carrier and a vape pen were found submerged in water near where Fleming’s son’s body was found. The person who placed the missing person call said the items belonged to Fleming, and that she probably took them when she left with her son.

The Darien Times reported that Fleming told a roommate that she ran through the woods, river, and a field while holding her son. The roommate said Fleming never disclosed her son’s death, though she appeared to know.

Fleming allegedly told a detective that she woke up that morning believing someone was out to kill her. Days earlier, she reportedly thought the “Illuminati” was after her.

According to reports, Fleming’s mental health issues date back to 2019 — when she caused a disturbance at the University of Connecticut. At the time, she was allegedly hearing voices, self-harming, and destroying property.  A warrant stated that Fleming was committed in 2023 following an incident with state police.

WVIT reported that Fleming had an in-person doctor’s appointment scheduled for June 9 — a day after her son’s disappearance and death. The medical examiner confirmed Fleming’s son died from drowning.

Fleming’s bond was set at $5 million.

[Feature Photo: Connecticut State Police]