Amanda Harms death: Family seeks answers as missing Oklahoma teacher found dead 3 miles from home

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA: The family of Amanda Harms is grappling with the mysterious circumstances surrounding her death, discovered only days after she was reported missing.

The 37-year-old teacher, a beloved figure at Muskogee Public Schools, was found lifeless in the backyard of a home several miles away from her residence on January 19.

Who was Amanda Harms?

Amanda, survived by three children and a grandson, was known for her dedication as a sixth and seventh-grade math teacher.

Townsend fondly recalled her daughter's passion for teaching, describing her as a "real good person" and a hard worker who loved her job.

The family was puzzled by the significant distance between Amanda's home and the location where she was found, approximately three miles away.

They were informed by authorities that there was footage of her getting a ride from someone. "We do know that she was knocking on doors trying to get in, but the people didn't answer," claimed Townsend.

Amanda Harms' family seeks clarity amidst police's conflicting statements

Initially, Muskogee Police claimed no suspicion of foul play; however, Amanda's mother, Shelley Townsend, maintained her skepticism until a recent meeting with investigators.

Following this, Amanda's husband, Erik, voiced concerns over conflicting information regarding the details that would be disclosed to the family. This led to a joint meeting involving Townsend, Erik, and investigators in search of much-needed answers.

"We won't know for sure until we get the autopsy report," shared Townsend. "We do know that, at the end of her life, she was desperately trying to get somebody to let her come into a house so she could get warm, but they would not answer the door."

Amanda was found in a backyard, approximately three miles from her home, near a fence. Investigators conveyed to Townsend that it seemed her daughter had made an attempt to climb the fence, as some of her clothing was entangled in the wire.

"Her husband said in all the years that he's known her, she would never climb a fence, but obviously, maybe because of the circumstances, she was desperate and thought if she could get over that fence, maybe she could find another house that would let her come in," explained Townsend, as per 2 News.

Following the meeting with investigators, the family gained clarity on the examinations being conducted to unveil the details behind Amanda's death. They were satisfied to learn that a comprehensive autopsy, examination, and toxicology report are in progress.

"Right now, I'm convinced that it was an accident," stated Townsend. "It was just an accident. It was like my younger daughter said, the perfect storm with the weather."

While the family has received some clarity, they continue to await the full report to determine the exact cause of Amanda's tragic and untimely death.