Carlyle Harris was born in September 1868 in Glens Falls, New York. He grew up in a time when education was important, especially in his family. Carlyle was a bright student and focused on his studies from a young age. He showed an interest in the medical field, which led him to pursue a degree in medicine.

He attended the New York College of Physicians and Surgeons. Carlyle was dedicated to his education and worked hard in his courses. He aimed to become a doctor and make a difference in people's lives. During his time in medical school, he met Mary Helen Potts. They fell in love and got married on February 8, 1890.

Carlyle and Mary Helen's marriage was significant in his life. As a medical student, Carlyle faced the pressures of school and the challenges of supporting a family. These experiences shaped his early adulthood. He was passionate about medicine, but his life took a dark turn after their marriage.

Carlyle Harris was a medical student at the New York College of Physicians and Surgeons. He committed murder by giving his wife, Mary Helen Potts, an overdose of morphine disguised as sleeping pills. The couple married on February 8, 1890. At first, Mary Helen's death was thought to be caused by a stroke. However, doctors later found that her contracted pupils indicated she had been poisoned with morphine.

Harris faced trial and was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Charles E. Simms Jr. Key witnesses included Dr. Rudolph Witthaus, who provided evidence of the morphine use. Harris had a well-known attorney, William F. Howe, defending him. After the trial, which concluded on the second anniversary of his marriage, Harris was found guilty of first-degree murder on February 8, 1892.

His punishment was death by electrocution. He was executed in the electric chair at Sing Sing Prison on May 8, 1893, at the age of 24.