MECHANICVILLE, New York — Police in upstate New York are investigating a horrific suspected murder-suicide in which a 64-year-old grandmother is believed to have killed her 44-year-old daughter and four grandchildren before taking her own life.

Amy Steadman is suspected of poisoning Sarah Myers and her four children inside their Mechanicville apartment. Evidence at the scene, including prescription pills and over-the-counter medications, points to intentional poisoning. One of the children was also found stabbed, according to authorities.

The six bodies were discovered during a welfare check after a neighbor reported not seeing the family for several days. Officers described the scene as deeply disturbing, with the victims badly decomposed when found.

A handwritten note and other items recovered from the home strongly suggest Steadman was responsible for the killings.

The children’s father, Brady Harmon, who had shared custody with Myers following their 2020 divorce, expressed profound grief. The children were scheduled to spend the summer with him when the tragedy occurred.

“I went from, I’m seeing my kids, to I’ll never see my kids again,” Harmon told local media. He hopes to have the children buried in Utah.

Investigators believe resentment toward the father over custody arrangements may have played a role in the suspected motive.

This unimaginable tragedy has devastated the local community and the children’s extended family. The investigation continues as authorities work to provide answers and support to those left behind.