A kayaker is rescued in Chemung County

On April 16, 2024, at approximately 8:55 a.m., troopers from SP Wayland received a call about a paddle and overturned kayak floating down the Cohocton River near the Dollar General, located on State Route 415 in the town of Avoca.

The caller reported observing an oar, a kayak, and a coffee mug float past him while fishing. Troopers on the scene took immediate action, calling for additional resources. The New York State Police Unmanned Aerial System Unit (UAS) responded. Steuben County 911 received a call from the kayaker, Trevor L. Conklin, age 31, of Avon, NY, who advised that he was on a peninsula in the river after his kayak overturned. UAS was able to locate the Conklin. The Bath Swift Water Rescue then retrieved Conklin from the water. Conklin was treated and released at the scene by Bath Ambulance.

The New York State Police, in a collaborative effort with Bath Ambulance and Swift Water Rescue, the Steuben County Sheriff's Office, and the Steuben County Emergency Services, successfully responded to the incident, ensuring a comprehensive and effective rescue operation.