Police/Fire/EMS

Tragic Drowning in Hudson River Near Haverstraw Claims One Life, Rockland County Firefighters Respond

Published

10 months ago

June 26, 2025

Haverstraw, NY — A coordinated multi-agency emergency response unfolded over the weekend after a reported drowning in the Hudson River between the Haverstraw Lighthouse and Rockland Lake State Park Beach, tragically resulting in one fatality.

Firefighters and marine units from across Rockland County were dispatched to the scene following the report of a person in distress in the water. Crews from the Stony Point Fire Department, Thiells Fire Department, and the Piermont Fire Department—which responded with 16 members—quickly mobilized in a search and recovery effort.

The victim was located and recovered by marine units before being transferred to the Piermont Fire Department’s marine unit, where they were pronounced deceased.

Emergency responders acted swiftly and professionally during the high-risk operation, navigating difficult currents and challenging conditions on the Hudson River.

This heartbreaking event serves as a reminder of the inherent dangers of swimming and boating in the Hudson River, especially in areas with strong tides and limited visibility.

Agencies Involved in the Response:

Piermont Fire Department

Stony Point Fire Department

Thiells Fire Department

Rockland County Sheriff’s Marine Unit (assisting agency)

Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when near the river and to always follow water safety guidelines. Officials have not released the name of the victim pending family notification.

Police/Fire/EMS

Suffern Police Check ATMs for Skimmers, Report No Threats Detected

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Suffern Police Department Detective Bureau, in partnership with the Rockland County Intelligence Center, recently conducted a proactive sweep of 35 local businesses to check for ATM and credit card skimming devices. No devices were detected.

Skimming devices are illegal tools used by criminals to capture payment card information during legitimate transactions—often without the victim’s knowledge. This stolen data can then be used to commit fraud and identity theft.

Proactive enforcement efforts like this play a critical role in safeguarding the community by preventing financial crimes before they occur and protecting both residents and local businesses. The Suffern Police Department remains committed to staying ahead of emerging threats and ensuring the continued safety and security of the community.

Police/Fire/EMS

Clarkstown Appoints James S. Fay Jr. as New Police Chief, Effective April 2026

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

New City, NY — Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town Board have appointed Capt. James S. Fay, Jr. as the next Chief of Police for the Town of Clarkstown, effective April 24, 2026.

He will succeed Jeffrey Wanamaker, who is retiring after an impressive 39-year career with the Clarkstown Police Department, including serving as Chief since 2021. The Town plans to formally recognize Wanamaker’s service later this month.

About Incoming Chief James S. Fay, Jr.

Capt. Fay brings 32 years of experience within the Clarkstown Police Department, with a career spanning both operational and administrative leadership:

Specialized Units & Investigations
- Narcotics and organized crime investigations
- Investigator with the Rockland County Narcotics Task Force
- Established and led the Street Crime Unit
- Served in the Juvenile Aid Bureau, handling sensitive cases involving children and family court
Emergency & Tactical Experience
- Over a decade with the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT)
- First responder at the September 11 terrorist attacks
Leadership Roles
- Supervised patrol operations and field training
- Oversaw Special Operations (K-9, Traffic, Anti-Crime)
- Currently serves as Operations Captain, overseeing Patrol, Detectives, and Special Operations
Labor & Community Involvement
- Former executive leader in the Police Benevolent Association
- Founding member of the Greater Nanuet Chamber of Commerce Board
- Graduate of Leadership Rockland

Supervisor Hoehmann praised both leaders, expressing gratitude to Chief Wanamaker for his decades of service and confidence in Fay as a “true public servant” committed to the department and community.