An Idaho mother who publicly claimed vaccines killed her 18-month-old twins has been arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in their deaths, authorities announced.
Andrea Shaw, 23, was taken into custody on June 30 by the Payette Police Department without incident, more than a year after the twins died. She is currently being held at the Ada County Jail and awaits extradition to Payette County, where she will face arraignment on first-degree murder charges.
What Happened to the Twins
The boy and girl, both 18 months old, were found dead on May 1, 2025, in a shared bed at their home. Officers responded to the residence that morning after receiving a call, where they discovered both children unresponsive.
“This is a heartbreaking case that impacts not only the family but the entire community,” Payette police said at the time.
The Podcast Appearance
Just days after the twins’ deaths, Shaw and her husband appeared on a podcast produced by Children’s Health Defense — an anti-vaccine organization previously led by current U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. — where they claimed the children became ill and died shortly after receiving vaccines.
Shaw’s attorney has maintained that he believes the deaths were vaccine-related and is standing by that position even after the murder charges were filed.
Investigation and Unanswered Questions
Payette police stated the arrest followed a lengthy investigation conducted with assistance from multiple agencies. Authorities have not released details about what specific evidence led to the murder charges.
It remains unclear whether Shaw’s husband faces any charges in connection with the case. Shaw has since given birth to another child, according to her attorney.
The case continues to develop. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Payette Police Department directly.
