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HAWTHORNE, NY -- Police Wednesday released further details about the brutal murder-suicide that left a family of four dead at a home in Cross River.
State Police say it appears Sam Friedlander, 50 bludgeoned his wife Amy, 46, with the leg of a piece of furniture before shooting his two young children while they slept. He then turned the gun on himself.
The bodies were discovered at 2 Lambert Ridge Road in the upscale Michelle Estates development in Cross River Tuesday afternoon by State Police who were called to the home to check on the well being of Amy Friedlander after she did not show up for work.
Cops say there were signs of a struggle in the couple's bedroom, where Amy Friedlander's body was found. State Police Maj. Michael Kopy said the two children were shot as they slept in their beds and then covered with their blankets. Sam Friedlander's body was found in the basement with an apparent self-inflicted shotgun wound. An autopsy is planned today.
The children were identified as Molly, 10, and Gregory, 8, students at Lewisboro Elementary school.
Amy Friedlander was a founder and partner of John Jay Prep, which provided tutoring and guidance services to students applying to college. A statement appeared on the company's webpage today:
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Amy Friedlander and her children Molly and Gregory. Amy was not only a business Partner but a personal friend and loving mother. She will be truly missed by us and the community at large. " Deborah Bernstein, Partner John Jay Prep.
Sam Friedlander was a lawyer in Bedford Hills. The couple were in the midst of divorce proceedings and were due in court Thursday, police said.
Check back for more details.
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