Full Breakdown
Indictment and Arrest of Melanie DiMarzio in Connection with Infant’s Death at Unlicensed East Canton Daycare
7/22/2026, 12:51:55 PM
Core Event
On July 21, 2026, Melanie DiMarzio, a 45-year-old resident of East Canton, Ohio, was arrested and indicted on two counts of involuntary manslaughter and one count of endangering children. The charges stem from the March 10 death of 8-month-old Grant Simmons while he was in DiMarzio’s care at an unlicensed home daycare located on South Market Street. Emergency responders arrived after a 911 call reported the infant not breathing; despite life-saving measures, he was pronounced dead at Aultman Hospital. The Stark County Coroner’s Office later noted that the cause and manner of death remained unavailable as of July 21.
Background & Context
DiMarzio and her husband, Alexander DiMarzio, operated the daycare out of their three-bedroom house without a state license. Village officials allege the operation violated local zoning laws and state sleeping-and-napping requirements for licensed family child-care providers. According to a civil complaint filed by Village Solicitor Stephan Babik, the home lacked emergency protocols, baby monitors, and adequate supervision; investigators reported that DiMarzio could not name one of six children present on the day of the incident.
Data & Statistics
- Charges: Two counts of involuntary manslaughter; one count of endangering children.
- Children in Care: Police statements indicate DiMarzio cared for “between five and 10 children” daily, receiving roughly $45 per child per day in cash.
- *March 10 (occurred):* Grant Simmons died at the unlicensed daycare.
- *July 21 (occurred):* Indictment filed; DiMarzio arrested with assistance from the United States Marshals Service.
Official Statements & Responses
- East Canton Police Department expressed condolences to the Simmons family and emphasized an ongoing, thorough investigation.
- Police Chief Christopher Hartlaub praised the investigative effort, noting the United States Marshals Service’s role in locating DiMarzio.
- Village of East Canton confirmed that after an extensive investigation, an arrest warrant was issued and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.
- Stark County Coroner’s Office reported on July 21 that the autopsy results and official cause of death had not yet been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I want to commend the dedication and professionalism of our investigators, as well as thank the United States Marshals Service for their invaluable assistance in locating and apprehending the suspect,” — Christopher Hartlaub, canton police chief
- “While today’s arrest is an important step toward justice, our thoughts remain with Grant’s family and loved ones as they continue to endure an unimaginable loss.” — Christopher Hartlaub, canton police chief
- “At 1:39, she called me screaming,” — Missy Williams
What’s Next
The criminal case remains active. No additional details about pending court proceedings have been released, and the Stark County Coroner’s Office has not yet provided a definitive cause of death. Further updates are expected as the investigation proceeds and the court schedule is set.
