Negotiators Bring Man in Distress Back to Safety

What could have been a tragedy ended peacefully last week when Putnam County sheriff’s deputies and negotiators convinced a man in distress to step back from a cliff he had perched himself on in the Hudson Highlands State Park.

At about 3:45 p.m. Aug. 25, the Cold Spring Police Department received a call through the Putnam County 911 Center reporting that a missing 34-year-old man experiencing a mental health crisis was believed to be in the area of the park.

Putnam County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Sean Kane and Jared Gramble responded to assist Cold Spring P.D. The two hiked the Washburn Trail and located the man standing on a cliff ledge. After making contact, they immediately began communicating with him while additional specialized resources responded to the scene, including the Putnam County Hostage Negotiation Team, the Westchester County Police Hostage Negotiation Team, and the Westchester County Police Emergency Services Unit.

On body camera footage, Kane can be heard talking to the man.

“I feel like there’s a reason that God put us here to find you today,” he said. “I understand you’re going through something, man. I don’ t know what it is… Why don’t you just come over and give us the chance to talk about it.”

Putnam County Hostage Negotiator and Investigator Matthew Tunney then arrived and for two hours remained in constant communication with the man, patiently building trust and encouraging him to return to safety.

Following the prolonged negotiation, the man voluntarily stepped away from the cliff and was safely escorted from the area without injury. He was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

“I’m incredibly proud of everyone who responded to this incident,” said Sheriff Brian Hess. “This was a true team effort that required patience, professionalism, and compassion. Thanks to the dedication of our deputies, negotiators, and partner agencies, this individual was unharmed and received the help he needed.”