On September 16, 2026, the small community of Brushton, New York, was shaken by a grim discovery that brought a violent end to the life of 68-year-old Martine Decarr. Responding to a welfare check at a residence on Hill Street at approximately 8:30 a.m., New York State Police entered the home to find two individuals deceased. The scene was quickly secured by law enforcement, including members of the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Violent Crimes Investigation Team, and the Forensic Investigation Unit, who immediately began to piece together the tragic events.
Autopsies were conducted on September 18 at Glens Falls Hospital by forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Sikirica. The results confirmed the devastating nature of the incident. Martine Decarr's death was officially ruled a homicide, caused by severe skull fractures and brain injuries resulting from a gunshot wound. The second individual found at the scene was identified as 60-year-old Drew R. Harm, also of Brushton. His death was determined to be a suicide, also from a gunshot wound that caused severe skull fractures and brain injuries. This finding led investigators to conclude the incident was a murder-suicide, and they assured the public that there was no ongoing threat related to the event.
The investigation into the deaths of Martine Decarr and Drew Harm concluded with the determination of a murder-suicide, with Harm as the sole suspect in Decarr's death. As a result, there were no arrests made, and the case did not proceed to a trial or sentencing. The community was left to mourn the loss of Decarr, who was remembered as a beloved staff member in the St. Regis Falls Central School District and a cherished mother and grandmother. Her life was one of warmth and kindness, leaving a lasting and positive impression on the lives of many, as reflected in the heartfelt condolences shared by those who knew her. The case stands as a closed tragedy, a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence.
