A 28-year-old man from Sacramento, Andrey Demskiy, has been arrested for the brutal murder of his one-year-old son, Micah Gabriel Demskiy, following what the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office described as a horrific domestic dispute.
The incident unfolded early on Friday morning, December 2, 2023, at approximately 4:15 AM, at the family's residence located on Versailles Way in Antelope, California. Responding to reports of a domestic disturbance, deputies arrived to find Demskiy’s wife outside the home, who informed them about domestic violence perpetrated by her husband against both her and her mother.
According to the sheriff's office, the mother, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries, had sought help after the altercation, but the scene inside was about to reveal something far more disturbing. Upon learning the couple's one-year-old son was still inside the house, deputies attempted to make contact with Demskiy, who refused to answer the door. Concerned for the child's safety, officers forced their way inside.
Within moments of entering the home, deputies encountered Demskiy, who reportedly began physically resisting arrest. The struggle between Demskiy and the deputies escalated, but after successfully detaining him, they made the gruesome discovery of the child's severed head inside the bedroom. Authorities believe this horrific act of violence occurred after the mother and grandmother fled the house, leaving the child with Demskiy.
"The deputies who had to discover and witness this… go home to families and their children each night and must come to terms with it. This is something that's shaken them," stated Sergeant Amar Gandhi of the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office, highlighting the emotional toll on those who responded to the scene. He described the situation as "one of the most horrific things" he's ever encountered.
Demskiy has been charged with murder, corporal injury on a spouse, and assault likely to produce great bodily injury. He is currently being held at the Sacramento County Main Jail without the possibility of bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for December 24. Prior to this incident, Demskiy reportedly had no significant criminal history.
Investigators have indicated there is no threat to the public at this time and are working to provide resources for the child's mother, as the investigation continues. The Sacramento County Coroner's Office has confirmed the identity of the child, Micah, and the community is left reeling from the tragic loss of such an innocent life.
This tragic case has raised alarms and sparked conversations about domestic violence and child protection within the community, with resources such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline being highlighted for those experiencing similar situations. The circumstances leading to this unspeakable crime showcase the urgent need for intervention and support for victims of domestic violence.
While Demskiy faces serious charges, the scars left on the family and the wider community are undeniable, as they are left grappling with the aftermath of such an unthinkable act.