Police in Mechanicville, New York, are investigating the deaths of a grandmother, her daughter, and four grandchildren as a murder-suicide. Authorities revealed Thursday that evidence found at the scene strongly suggests the grandmother, Amy Steadman, was involved in the deaths of her daughter, Sarah Myers, 44, and Myers’ four children: Harper Harmon, 13, Hudson Harmon, 11, and 10-year-old twins Gavin and Gracelynn.
A handwritten note discovered in Steadman's home "strongly suggests" her involvement, Mechanicville Chief of Police Bill Rabbitt stated at a press conference. Investigators recovered evidence indicating intentional poisoning, including numerous prescription and over-the-counter medications. Sources indicated that one child was stabbed, while the others appear to have been poisoned, with syringes found in the home. Rabbitt noted that investigators have found no evidence of outside involvement and believe the deaths occurred entirely within the apartment.
The relatives were discovered deceased by police on Tuesday evening after a neighbor requested a welfare check, having not seen Steadman for several days. Responding officers noted that the bodies had been in the home for an "extended period of time," making immediate identification difficult due to decomposition.
Sources have suggested a possible motive related to a recent custody arrangement. Brady Harmon, the children's father, had reportedly been granted two months of custody of his children, which was set to begin the following Wednesday. Harmon, who had not seen his children since 2019, expressed his devastation upon learning of their deaths.
The investigation is ongoing, and final determinations will be made after all findings, toxicology reports, and medical reviews are completed, according to Chief Rabbitt.