Troy mayor to increase patrols at Poestenkill Gorge after drowning

TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Mayor Carmella Mantello told NEWS10 the city intends to patrol the area of Poestenkill Gorge Park more frequently, after a man drowned and died on Sunday.

The move comes after people continue to follow prohibited areas of the trail and swim in the water, just one day after this death. NEWS10 cameras caught more than a dozen people ignoring "No Trespassing" signs on Monday afternoon.

According to police, a 26-year-old man was swimming from one end of the water to the other on Sunday afternoon when he began experiencing trouble. People nearby pulled him out of the water and when officers arrived he was unconscious. Police said he was transported to the hospital and later pronounced dead.

This park is known for its dangerous areas, which is why the mayor's office said they plan to look into adding more safety regulations at the park. In a statement to NEWS10, Mayor Mantello emphasized the many "No Trespassing" signs that already exist.

"We are deeply saddened by the accidental drowning of a 26-year-old man from Troy at Poestenkill Gorge Park on Sunday. Our hearts go out to the victim's family, friends, and all who were affected by this tragic loss. The safety of our residents is our top priority. Numerous signs, fencing, and a clear "No Swimming" sign by the gorge are in place to alert visitors. Despite our efforts to preserve the natural beauty of the park while ensuring public safety, this tragedy underscores the critical need to follow posted warnings. Thank you to our Troy Fire and Police Departments for their swift action, and to the bystanders who attempted to rescue the victim. I urge everyone to obey the posted signs and guidelines when visiting Poestenkill Gorge Park or any other recreational area in Troy. These restrictions are in place for your protection and must be followed," said Mayor Carmella Mantello, in a statement.

For many visitors, the Poestenkill Gorge Park can be a relaxing place. Troy historian Kathy Sheehan said the park even holds a rich history.

“It has a very long history and it actually was harnessed by the gentleman in the portrait here, Benjamin Marshall," said Kathy. "That water really did harness many of the factories in the 19th and into the early 20th century before everybody went into steam-powered."

However, that water is also known for its grave danger. Officers said this park has claimed the lives of at least five people in the last decade. In 2020, a person died after jumping off the ledge and into the water. In 2016, a 16-year-old fell into the gorge and died, and in 2014, a missing hiker was found at the park.

Some people believe, visitors would benefit from having more signs on the trails.

“I mean there are signs all over the place that say no swimming in the gorge. It's dangerous there’s lots of shale. So its just a matter of you know, maybe we have to add a little bit more signage," said Kathy.  

Misha, said he comes to the park frequently and advises people to take precautions.

"Don't swim, you can just enjoy the place without going in the water," said Misha, a student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.