Overview
- Mechanicville police say Sarah Myers and her mother Amy Steadman plotted the killings and that the murders occurred on June 10, with the six bodies discovered on June 23 after a neighbor reported a foul odor.
- Investigators recovered text messages that described obtaining medications, timing, where the killings would occur and ways to avoid suspicion, and they say planning began by June 5.
- Police found pharmacy purchase records and internet searches by Steadman about drug effects and where to stab, plus two handwritten notes including one signed by Steadman that accepted responsibility and cited alleged abuse as a motive.
- Officials say three children were killed by a mix of over‑the‑counter and prescription drugs and that 10‑year‑old Gavin was fatally stabbed and showed defensive wounds; autopsies led to cremation and the children’s ashes were later taken to Utah.
- The investigation remains open, police say they cannot independently verify the abuse claims and authorities are reviewing missed intervention points including two welfare checks that went to the wrong apartment unit and prior CPS contacts.