Jessica Lyman, 44, and her 8-year-old son, Eli Painter, were found dead in their Saratoga Springs home on March 28. Police were called by Jessica’s 17-year-old daughter, who discovered the two lying in blood. Eli had been shot twice and died at the scene, while Jessica died in the hospital two days later.
According to newly unsealed warrants, Jessica was found with her underwear pulled down and dried genetic material nearby. A handwritten note reading “This is a murder story” was discovered in the room, along with another referencing “DNA” and “firearm testing.” BB guns, plate carriers, and a white mask—matching one seen in surveillance footage—were also found in the home.
Security footage showed a masked figure near the home around 2:30 a.m. on the day of the deaths. The person left through a fence, returned about 30 minutes later, and put on a white mask. Jessica’s phone also contained hostile messages reportedly sent from her son’s phone, including, “I wish I died in your stomach.”
Police have not named a suspect, but DNA testing is ongoing. Jessica’s family described her as a “dedicated mother” and are urging the public to help. “We miss Jessica and Eli every single moment,” the family said. “Even the smallest detail could help.” A GoFundMe page has been created to support the family as they await justice.
