Gallatin man arrested following shooting of Environmental Conservation Officer

Gallatin, New York – On November 29, 2016, New York State Police from the Livingston barracks arrested Alan Blanchard, 55 of Gallatin, NY, for Assault in the 2^nd degree, a class D felony, following an accidental shooting of a police officer while hunting.

On November 29, 2016 at approximately 5:00pm New York State Environmental Police officers Lieutenant Eliza Bobseine and Officer James Davey were investigating a complaint of a reported trespass with shots fired in the area on Silvernails Road in the Town of Gallatin when they came upon fresh tire tracks leading into a cut cornfield.  While walking through the field, Officer Davey was shot one time with a rifle in the area of his pelvis.  The shooter, Alan Blanchard, and his hunting partner, James Brown of Pine Plains, NY, subsequently remained at the scene and assisted with rescue efforts.  Investigation determined Blanchard’s reckless conduct led to the accidental shooting of Officer Davey.  Officer Davey underwent surgery and is recovering at a local hospital.

New York State Police were assisted by New York State Environmental Conservation Police.  Town of Pine Plains Fire Department Rescue Squad and Northern Dutchess paramedics responded to scene and provided medical services and transportation to the hospital.

Blanchard was arraigned in the Town of Livingston Court and remanded to the Columbia County Jail in lieu of no bail and is scheduled to reappear in the Town of Livingston Court on 12/8/16 at 7:00pm.

Inquiries concerning Officer Davey should be directed to the DEC press office at 518-402-8000, or pressoffice@dec.ny.gov.