MECHANICVILLE, N.Y. (WCAX/Gray News) — A grandmother in New York state is suspected of poisoning her daughter and four grandchildren, leading to their deaths.
Police were called to Amy Steadman’s home in Mechanicville, New York, for a welfare check Tuesday after neighbors said they had not heard from the family for several days.
Inside, officers found six people dead: Steadman, 64; Sarah Myers, 44; Harper Harmon, 13; Hudson Harmon, 11; Gavin Harmon, 10; and Gracelynn Harmon, 10.
Investigators said Steadman was Myers’ mother and the children’s grandmother. Myers and her children lived in the same apartment complex, but not with Steadman.
The causes of their deaths remain under investigation, but Mechanicville police said evidence indicates intentional poisoning with prescription and over-the-counter medications. One of the children also had sharp-force injuries.
Mechanicville Police Chief William Rabbit said a handwritten note strongly suggests Steadman was involved, but police have not made a final determination.
“Mechanicville is a close-knit city. Many residents knew the family involved, have children and grandchildren of their own, or simply cannot comprehend the loss of six lives under such heartbreaking circumstances,” the chief said.
Police reaffirmed that they believe there is no threat to the public.
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