Missing Upstate New York Hunter Found Dead in Tree Stand

Tragedy in Upstate New York

This is a sad story to report from central New York, and our hearts go out to the family and community affected by this news. Sources say that officials have not released the man’s identity pending notification of family, but here's what we've learned so far.

According to a report, a community search in Otsego County ended in tragedy in the early hours last Thursday morning after a 67-year-old man from Remsen was found dead in his tree stand at Gilbert Lake State Park, which is about 25 minutes south of Cooperstown.

Reported Missing by Spouse

According to officials, the hunter’s spouse reported the unnamed man missing at approximately 10:48 p.m. on October 16th after he failed to return home from a day of deer hunting.

In response, the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

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That evening, and into the overnight, Forest Rangers coordinated a large-scale search effort involving personnel from multiple agencies, including Otsego County Emergency Services, the Garrattsville and Laurens Fire Departments, New York State Police, and New York State Park Police.

Rangers Make Grisly Discovery

Sadly, at around 3:34 a.m., search crews located the hunter deceased in his elevated tree stand.

According to the source, Forest Rangers had to use a rope system to safely recover the body, which was then turned over to the Otsego County Coroner for examination.

Officials have not released the man’s identity pending notification of family. The cause of death has not yet been determined.