Dr. Amie Harwick, a prominent figure in the Los Angeles wellness community, was tragically killed in February 2020. As the trial for the man accused of her murder begins, we revisit the case and everything we know so far.
Dr. Amie Harwick: A Life Dedicated to Helping Others
Dr. Amie Harwick was a respected family, relationship, and sex therapist who made a significant impact on the lives of many. Originally from Pennsylvania, she rose to prominence in Los Angeles, appearing in magazines, podcasts, and TV news programs.
Dr. Amie Harwick smiling in a professional headshot
Her book, “The New Sex Bible for Women,” published in 2014, further cemented her status as a leading voice in her field. Through her work, Dr. Harwick empowered women, fostering a supportive community through her “Foxy Feminists” group, which connected women in Los Angeles for job opportunities and personal growth.
The Events Leading to a Tragic Valentine’s Day
On February 14, 2020, Dr. Harwick spent the day enjoying herself, going for a walk with a friend, having a meal, and later attending a burlesque show with friends.
Around midnight, she returned home and sent a text message to a friend, requesting photos from the show. This seemingly ordinary evening took a horrific turn shortly after, marking the beginning of a tragic end to a life filled with purpose.
A Timeline of the Murder and Investigation
Dr. Harwick lived on the third floor of her residence. Her roommate, sleeping on the first floor, was awoken by screams. Unable to locate his phone, the roommate yelled for the attacker to stop before rushing outside to seek help.
Police cars and officers surrounding a residential home
At approximately 1:14 a.m., he managed to call 911. Upon arrival, police discovered Dr. Harwick struggling to breathe. Evidence suggested she had been thrown from her third-story balcony.
The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide caused by manual strangulation and blunt force trauma. Dr. Harwick was pronounced dead at 3:30 a.m.
Signs of a Struggle and Forced Entry
The crime scene investigation revealed signs of forced entry and a struggle. Blood was found on Dr. Harwick’s bedroom door, along with beads from her necklace scattered across the floor.
It was later revealed that Dr. Harwick’s roommate had heard a loud noise earlier in the night but dismissed it before going back to sleep. Investigators believe this noise was likely the perpetrator breaking into the house, lying in wait for hours before attacking Dr. Harwick.
The Suspect: An Ex-Boyfriend with a Troubling Past
Less than 24 hours after Dr. Harwick’s murder, police arrested Gareth Pursehouse, a software engineer and aspiring comedian who had briefly appeared on the show “Kill Tony.”
Gareth Pursehouse making a comedic appearance
Pursehouse had dated Dr. Harwick nine years earlier, and their relationship was marred by allegations of abuse.
Dr. Harwick had filed two restraining orders against Pursehouse, accusing him of physical assault, including choking, punching, slamming her head, and kicking. She alleged that he would become enraged, refused to seek help for his behavior, and had previously broken into her apartment, sent unwanted gifts, and subjected her to threatening texts and emails.
One chilling text allegedly read: “Things will get worse.” Dr. Harwick had reportedly confided in friends, referring to Pursehouse as her “stalker.”
The final restraining order expired in 2015, and Dr. Harwick had not seen Pursehouse for several years until a chance encounter a month before her death. At this event, where Pursehouse was working as a photographer, he allegedly confronted Dr. Harwick, using derogatory language and blaming her for ruining his life.
Dr. Harwick’s friend, present at the encounter, described her as going into “therapist mode,” attempting to de-escalate the situation. This unsettling incident, occurring just weeks before her murder, is believed to be a crucial piece of evidence for the prosecution.
The Trial Begins: Seeking Justice for Dr. Harwick
Gareth Pursehouse has been charged with murder and burglary. Prosecutors allege that DNA evidence found under Dr. Harwick’s fingernails and on a door in her home matches his DNA.
Furthermore, a syringe filled with liquid found at the crime scene matches an identical syringe containing a lethal dose of nicotine discovered in Pursehouse’s home. Text messages confirm the liquid in the syringe was indeed nicotine, adding another layer of suspicion. Notably, friends have testified that Dr. Harwick was not known to smoke, vape, or inject nicotine.
Pursehouse has pleaded not guilty to the charges. His defense attorney has previously argued that there is insufficient evidence linking him to the murder.
This trial marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice for Dr. Amie Harwick. If convicted, Gareth Pursehouse faces life in prison and is technically eligible for the death penalty due to the “lying in wait” aspect of the crime, although recent developments in California law may impact sentencing.
Remembering Dr. Harwick: A Legacy of Strength and Compassion
Dr. Amie Harwick’s tragic death sent shockwaves through her community and beyond. As the trial unfolds, her friends and family grapple with the loss of a remarkable woman while hoping for a just outcome.
Robert Kolsin holding Dr. Harwick's cat, Marquee
Robert Kolsin, a close friend of Dr. Harwick’s, has launched a fundraiser to create a lasting memorial in her honor. The plan is to erect a bronze statue of Dr. Harwick in Hollywood Forever Cemetery, a place she cherished, with a dedication to victims of domestic violence.
Kolsin, who has also adopted Dr. Harwick’s beloved cat, Marquee, sees these efforts as a way to keep her memory alive and continue the work she was so passionate about. He describes the impending trial as a “necessary painful surgery,” acknowledging the difficult journey ahead while hoping for closure and justice for his dear friend.