Rock Climber dies after fall on Mohonk Preserve
NEW YORK STATE POLICE
Major Patrick Regan
Troop F Commander
Troop F Commander
PRESS RELEASE
New York State Police in Highland are investigating a fatal rock climbing accident that occured on Wednesday, June 10, 2015 at approximately 8:20pm.Andrew Barnes, 46 of Niskayuna, NY was rock climbing on the Monhonk Preserve located on ST Rte 44/55 in the Town of Gardiner when he fell approximately 50 feet. At the time of the accident Barnes was free climbing and not utilizing a climbing rope. He was pronouced dead at the scene. Barnes had over 10 years rock climbing experience.
The cause of the accident is still pending investigation.
The New York State Police was assisted by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, Monhonk Preserve Search and Rescue Rangers, Town of Gardiner Fire Department and the Town of Shawangunk Fire Dept.
