Investigators in Mechanicville, New York, are exploring the possibility that Sarah Myers, the mother of four children found dead in a murder-suicide, may have been complicit in their deaths, according to Mechanicville Police Chief William Rabbitt.
"We have not ruled out that Sarah Myers was also complicit in the deaths of her children," Rabbitt stated, declining to provide further details at this time.
The six victims, identified as Amy Steadman, 64, her daughter Sarah Myers, 44, and Myers’ children Harper Harmon, 13; Hudson Harmon, 11; Gavin Harmon, 10; and Gracelynn Harmon, 10, were discovered in Steadman’s apartment on June 23. Initial findings from the scene "strongly suggested" Steadman was involved, but authorities are now considering other theories.
Police are awaiting toxicology results, which Rabbitt hopes will provide more clarity next week, stating there is "still a great deal to be said" about the case.
Investigation Details
Evidence recovered from the apartment indicated intentional poisoning, including numerous prescription and over-the-counter medications. One child was found with a fatal sharp injury, while the others appeared to have been poisoned. A handwritten note was also found, which initially pointed to Steadman as the primary suspect.
Sarah Myers was reportedly involved in a contentious custody dispute with her ex-husband, Brady Harmon, who resides in Utah. Harmon had not seen his children in person since November 2019 but was scheduled to have them with him from July to September.
Harmon told reporters that his last conversation with the children on June 7 indicated they were happy. However, he had previously voiced concerns about their welfare, alleging that Steadman prevented him from seeing them. According to the Times-Union, Harmon traveled to New York to speak with investigators and claimed to have found cat urine and feces in Myers' apartment where the children lived.
He also stated he had received multiple letters from child protective services, with one suggesting Myers was under investigation for Munchausen syndrome by proxy. Harmon further claimed a therapist had warned of Myers' negligence in caring for the children.
A funeral for the four children was held in Utah. Harmon reported that due to the condition of their bodies, they could not be transported home. Their ashes were spread on a mountain in Utah, where Harmon's father's ashes were also laid to rest. Harmon expressed comfort in the belief that his children are now reunited with his late father and other family members. For him, this offers peace of mind, knowing they are safe with loved ones rather than those who might harm them.