Posted on: August 18, 2025 11:58 AM

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State police investigate drowning in Harriman state park

The victim has been identified as Darwin J. Chuiza, age 22, of Spring Valley, NY.

On August 16, 2025, at about 11:47 a.m., troopers from SP Monroe responded to Turkey Hill Pond, located within Harriman State Park in the town of Highlands, for a report of a possible drowning.

The investigation revealed that a 22-year-old male victim had gone hiking with a friend in the Turkey Hill area of Harriman State Park. Following the hike, the victim entered Turkey Hill Pond to cool off. At approximately 11:35 a.m., the victim entered the water and as he proceeded to walk away from the shore, he quickly submerged below the waterline and did not resurface.

Search efforts were initiated with assistance from the New York State Police Aviation Unit and the Underwater Recovery Team. The victim was located deceased approximately 20 feet from the shore in 10 feet of water. The drowning appears to be accidental in nature, with no signs of foul play.

From NYSP