Katlyn Harp cause of death: Mystery deepens as secrets from Vinny Harp’s past go back under the microscope

The investigation into the death of Katlyn Harp took another twist this week after the initial autopsy revealed “no evidence of gunshot wounds” or “penetrating trauma and no fractures to the extremity bones,” according to the authorities.

The cause of death is now pending toxicology results. That process could take weeks, leaving lingering questions about how the 33-year-old woman died and why her body was found hidden in rural Pennsylvania after a weeklong search.

Questions surrounding Vinny’s first wife’s death

After Katlyn was found, Harp’s husband, Vincent “Vinny” Harp, was arrested and charged with criminal homicide, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with physical evidence. Now, attention is turning to Vinny’s past, especially the death of his first wife, a woman named Samantha Harp, who, some unconfirmed reports say, died in 2017 of an alleged opioid overdose.

According to a coroner at the time, that woman was found unresponsive in her apartment, and toxicology showed high levels of fentanyl and oxycodone in her system. No charges were filed in that case, and the death was ruled accidental. It’s unclear if that Samantha Harp is Vinny’s first wife, though.

It is confirmed that Vinny’s first wife died, but some reports state that the woman, also named Stephanie Harp, died in 2021 and was involved in domestic violence allegations in 2018. Vinny never faced charges.

Either way, the possible parallels between the cases are striking. And in light of the current investigation into Katlyn’s death, some are calling for a second look.

Katlyn found in remote area

Katlyn was reported missing on June 19, prompting an urgent, multi-agency search spanning counties and employing drones, K‑9 units, ATVs, and volunteer ground crews. Investigators carefully examined cellphone and Life360 data, which led them to an area near a former Harp family property at 86 Harp Lane in Montour Township.

Thanks to this digital footprint and corroborating surveillance evidence—including a large green metal box seen in Vinny’s pickup on camera—authorities zeroed in on the remote land. Upon gaining permission from the current landowner, officers searched the property.

Katlyn’s body, identified by a distinctive tattoo, was stuffed inside that very box, left under the brush, and emitted a strong odor consistent with decomposition.

Family seeks answers as investigation continues

Katlyn’s family, meanwhile, is left waiting for answers, for justice, and for the toxicology report that could determine Katyln’s cause of death. The full autopsy results, including toxicology, are expected in the coming weeks.