Eric A. Chugchilin Obituary, Death – A 19-year-old man from Spring Valley tragically drowned at Haverstraw Beach State Park, and his body was recovered from the Hudson River on the evening of Thursday, June 26, 2025.
New York State Trooper Jennifer Alvarez confirmed the victim was identified as Eric A. Chugchilin. He had entered the water at Haverstraw Beach State Park earlier in the afternoon and failed to return to shore, prompting an immediate search and rescue effort.
According to officials, emergency personnel were dispatched to the park around 4 p.m., roughly 25 minutes after Chugchilin had last been seen. The incident occurred near the Riverside Avenue entrance to the park. Investigators later determined that Chugchilin had been walking in the shallow water when he unintentionally stepped into a deeper section where he could no longer stand. Although bystanders at the scene tried to pull him out, they were unable to rescue him in time.
A large-scale search and recovery operation followed, involving multiple agencies. Responders included the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, Rockland County Fire and Emergency Services Dive Team, New York State Forest Rangers, State Park Police, Haverstraw Police, Thiells Fire Department, Stony Point Fire Department, and the Westchester County Police Marine Unit. Divers and emergency boats coordinated efforts alongside New York State Troopers and the Piermont Fire Department to search for Chugchilin in the water.
After about two hours of searching, divers from the Piermont Fire Department located Chugchilin’s body at 6:20 p.m. on the riverbed near the area where he had last been seen.
Following the incident, the Palisades Interstate Parks Commission (PIPC) issued a reminder that swimming is prohibited at Haverstraw Beach State Park and throughout all parks within the Palisades Region. The parks do not have lifeguards on duty, making swimming particularly dangerous.
Joshua Laird, Executive Director of the PIPC, emphasized the risks of entering the Hudson River in these areas. “We urge visitors to follow this crucial safety rule, as swift currents and steep drop-offs make these waters hazardous, especially for those unfamiliar with the river’s conditions,” Laird stated.
The tragic drowning has raised concerns over unauthorized swimming in state parks, particularly in locations with strong currents and no lifeguard presence. Authorities continue to stress the importance of adhering to posted safety guidelines to prevent future incidents.
Eric Chugchilin’s death marks a somber moment for the Spring Valley community and for those who witnessed the failed rescue attempts. First responders and community leaders extended their condolences to the family as the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
