Drowning update/Hinckley

Michael R. Litz, 34yoa of Utica St., Oriskany was on a day trip with relatives and associates on the island of Hinckley Reservoir. Witnesses reported Litz entered the water in a channel on the East side of the island facing the Trails End Campground Herkimer County. A relatively short distance from shore, Litz encountered unknown distress and struggled to swim. Witnesses saw Litz and swam to his location and extracted him from the water.

Litz was unresponsive and Emergency Services were notified on the incident. A nearby medical provider also on the island assisted with CPR as Litz was transported by private vessel to the campground.

Litz was treated by members of the Remsen Fire Department and transported by STAR Ambulance to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. He was pronounced deceased at approximately 3:30pm.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the NYS Environmental Conservation Police and their vessel. The death remains under investigation by members of the Sheriff’s Patrol, Criminal Investigation Divisions and the Onondaga Medical Examiner’s Office. It appears the incident occurred at the depth in excess of six feet of water and Litz was not wearing a personal flotation device.