Grandmother Suspected in Deaths of Six Family Members in New York
Police say a 64-year-old grandmother is suspected in the deaths of her daughter, four grandchildren, and herself after six family members were found dead inside an apartment in Mechanicville, New York. Authorities announced the update on June 25, 2026, as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the case.
Welfare Check Led to Discovery
The victims were discovered on June 23 after neighbors requested a welfare check at an apartment in the John S. Moore Housing Complex on Harris Avenue.
Officers entered the residence with assistance from property management and found six deceased family members inside. Investigators later determined the bodies had been in the apartment for an extended period before they were discovered.
Police Identify Grandmother as Primary Suspect
Mechanicville Police Chief William Rabbitt said evidence collected during the investigation points to 64-year-old Amy Steadman as the primary suspect.
Authorities recovered a handwritten note from the apartment along with other evidence. Police have not released the contents of the note, citing the ongoing investigation.
Officials also emphasized that there is no indication of a threat to the public.
Investigators Await Final Autopsy Results
Police said investigators recovered prescription and over-the-counter medications from the apartment, and preliminary evidence suggests several of the deaths may have involved poisoning.
Authorities also confirmed that one of the children suffered a fatal sharp-force injury. Final causes and manners of death remain pending toxicology testing and the medical examiner’s findings.
Victims Identified
Authorities identified the victims as:
- Amy Steadman, 64
- Sarah Myers, 44
- Harper Harmon, 13
- Hudson Harmon, 11
- Gavin Harmon, 10
- Gracelynn Harmon, 10
The victims represented three generations of the same family.
Custody Dispute Part of Investigation
Investigators are reviewing whether an upcoming child custody arrangement may have played a role in the case.
According to authorities, the children’s father, Brady Harmon, who lives in Utah, had recently obtained a court-approved summer custody schedule and was expected to reunite with the children on July 1.
Police have not identified an official motive, and the investigation remains active.
