Mechanicville, New York — Authorities investigating the deaths of six family members found inside a home in upstate New York have released new findings, saying a 44-year-old mother and her 64-year-old mother are believed to have died by suicide, while the deaths of the four children found at the scene are being investigated as homicides.
The heartbreaking case has drawn widespread attention as investigators continue piecing together what happened inside the Mechanicville residence where the family was discovered last month.
Police Confirm New Findings in Family Death Investigation
According to Mechanicville Police Chief Bill Rabbitt, investigators believe Sarah Myers, 44, and her mother, Amy Steadman, 64, died by suicide before authorities discovered their bodies on June 23.
The bodies of Myers’ four children — 13-year-old Harper, 11-year-old Hudson, and 10-year-old twins Gavin and Gracelynn — were also found inside the residence.
Police said the children’s deaths are being investigated as homicides.
Authorities previously stated that investigators recovered evidence indicating intentional poisoning involving medications inside the apartment. Police have also said one of the children suffered a fatal stab wound, while investigators believe the others died after being poisoned.
The investigation remains active, and officials have not announced any additional suspects.
Welfare Check Led to Grim Discovery
Police responded to the home after neighbors requested a welfare check, saying they had not seen the family for several days. When officers entered the residence, they discovered all six family members deceased.
According to Chief Rabbitt, the bodies were badly decomposed, suggesting they had been inside the home for some time before they were found.
Investigators also recovered a handwritten note along with prescription and over-the-counter medications during the search of the residence.
Authorities have not publicly released the contents of the note.
Father Says He Was About to Reunite With His Children
The children’s father, Brady Harmon, said he had been working through the legal system for years in an effort to regain custody or visitation after separating from Sarah Myers in 2019.
Speaking publicly after the tragedy, Harmon said he believed he was only days away from reuniting with his children.
According to Harmon, the children were scheduled to stay with him in Utah from July 1 through Sept. 1, giving them an opportunity to reconnect with him and other relatives they had not seen in years.
He said learning of their deaths on June 23 was devastating. Harmon explained that he had pursued every legal option available to him but never imagined events would end this way.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not announced when the investigation will be completed, and no criminal charges are expected given the findings released by police.
Investigators continue reviewing evidence collected from the residence as they work to finalize the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The case has deeply affected the local community and raised renewed attention on family welfare investigations and custody disputes, while loved ones continue mourning the loss of the four children.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking case? Share your condolences and respectful thoughts for the family in the comments below.
