A weekend outing turned tragic in the Hudson Valley when a woman died at a popular public pool, prompting both grief and questions as officials work to determine the cause of her sudden passing.
Woman Found Unresponsive at Ulster County Pool
Emergency crews were called to the Ulster County Pool in New Paltz on Saturday around 2:30 p.m. following reports of an unresponsive swimmer. Lifeguards at the scene acted swiftly, pulling the woman from the water and initiating life-saving procedures, including CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).
An EMT, who happened to be stationed nearby at the Ulster County Fairgrounds, quickly joined the effort to revive the woman.
Victim Identified as Napanoch Resident
While the woman’s name has not yet been released, officials confirmed she was a 62-year-old resident of Napanoch, a hamlet in Ulster County. Despite the immediate and professional response by lifeguards and emergency personnel, the woman remained unresponsive. She was transported to a local hospital where she was later pronounced dead.
Unclear Cause of Death
Authorities believe the woman may have experienced a “medical event” while in the pool. However, the exact cause of death remains unknown pending further investigation.
Everett Erichsen, Director of the Ulster County Department of Emergency Services, praised the rapid response at the scene.
“We commend the swift and professional response of the lifeguards and EMT on the scene,” said Erichsen. “The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office wellness team was deployed to support pool staff, and the pool was shut down for the rest of the day, in line with standard protocol.”
County Officials and Community Respond
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger offered her condolences in a heartfelt public statement.
“My heart goes out to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic loss, and we are holding them in our thoughts,” Metzger said. “We’re making sure that our staff and all those affected have the support they need in the days ahead. Moments like this remind us just how precious life is — and how grateful we are for those who step up to protect it.”
Investigation Continues
The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the incident. While no foul play is suspected at this time, officials are awaiting results that may shed more light on what led to the woman’s death.
In the meantime, the Ulster County Pool remains a site of mourning for many in the community, as residents reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of safety — even in the most routine moments of summer recreation.
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