A 62-year-old woman from Napanoch died Saturday after experiencing a medical emergency while swimming at the Ulster County Pool in New Paltz, according to county officials.
Emergency crews responded to the scene at approximately 2:30 p.m. on June 21 following a report of an unresponsive swimmer. Lifeguards quickly removed the woman from the water and began life-saving efforts, including CPR and use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), said Everett Erichsen, Director of the Ulster County Department of Emergency Services.
An EMT stationed nearby at the Ulster County Fairgrounds responded immediately to assist, but the woman remained unresponsive and was transported to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
“Preliminary information suggests that a medical event occurred while the individual was in the pool,” Erichsen stated. “An investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office wellness team was deployed to support staff at the pool, which was closed for the remainder of the day in accordance with county protocol.
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger issued a statement expressing condolences and gratitude to the emergency responders.
“My heart goes out to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic loss,” Metzger said. “The lifeguards and EMTs who responded acted quickly and skillfully in a high-stress situation, and we are grateful for their care and professionalism.”
County officials say efforts are underway to ensure staff and others impacted by the incident receive appropriate support in the coming days.
The woman’s identity has not been released pending family notification.
Image: The Ulster County Pool Complex in New Paltz, NY. (Credit: Ulster County Government)