Mechanicville: New toxicology findings have revealed disturbing details surrounding the deaths of four children in Mechanicville, New York, who were killed in a case authorities have described as a murder-suicide involving their mother and grandmother.
Harper Harmon, 13, Hudson Harmon, 11, and 10-year-old twins Gracelynn and Gavin Harmon were found dead alongside their mother, Sarah Myers, 44, and grandmother, Amy Steadman, 64, on June 23. Police have ruled the children’s deaths as homicides and the deaths of the two women as suicides.
Toxicology report reveals substances given to children
According to a report based on information provided by sources to NewsChannel 13, all four children had diphenhydramine, an ingredient in some allergy medicines including Benadryl, and kratom in their systems.
Authorities believe Harper, Hudson and Gracelynn died after being poisoned. Gavin reportedly survived the poisoning attempt but was later fatally stabbed while apparently trying to defend himself. Police had previously said he suffered defensive injuries.
Custody dispute surrounded the family tragedy
The killings occurred amid a prolonged custody dispute between Myers and her former husband, Brady Harmon, who lives in Utah. The children were reportedly expected to spend time with their father shortly before their deaths.
Investigators said Myers and Steadman had left notes alleging concerns about abuse. However, police said they were unable to verify those allegations, while Harmon has denied them.
Investigators also recovered messages and internet searches that they said indicated the women had planned the killings in advance.
The case has deeply shocked the Mechanicville community, with the deaths highlighting the devastating consequences of family conflict and violence involving children.