WAWARSING — A 14-year-old boy drowned at a popular swimming hole in Ulster County on July 16.
Charief M. Spratley of Ellenville was swimming with friends at the Split Rock swimming hole on State Route 55 when he became submerged and did not resurface at approximately 6:51 p.m., according to New York State Police.
Friends attempted to rescue Spratley but were unsuccessful.
They immediately contacted 911 and remained on the line until emergency responders arrived.
Troopers from the State Police barracks in Ellenville conducted an initial search of the water but were unable to locate the victim.
The Ulster Hose Company 5 Dive Team was deployed and subsequently recovered Spratley’s body from the water.
He was unresponsive at the time of recovery.
Emergency medical personnel initiated lifesaving measures but were unsuccessful, and Spratley was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The New York State Police were assisted by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, Ulster Hose Company 5 Dive Team, the Ellenville First Aid & Rescue Squad, Napanoch Fire Department, City of Kingston Fire Department Rope and Rescue team and New York City Department of Environmental Police.
