State Police investigate Burden Lake drowning incident

On May 26, 2025, State Police responded to Burden Lake in Sand Lake, NY for the reports of a drowning.

On May 26, 2025, at about 1:50 p.m. Troopers responded to the area of Glen Royal Road in Sand Lake, NY for the reports of a possible drowning. The investigation determined James A. Slater, 31 of Averill Park, NY was located struggling to stay above water by Good Samaritans. Stater then quickly became unconscious and was removed from the lake at which time, life-saving measures were attempted by bystanders until law enforcement and emergency medical services arrived.  Slater was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.