Clifton, NY (WRGB) — Two men died after falling through the ice while ice fishing Sunday night in the Town of Clifton, according to New York State Police.
New York State Police say they responded to County Route 60 at approximately 7:40 p.m. on January 18 for a report of individuals riding a snowmobile who had gone through the ice.
An investigation determined that three people were ice fishing on Chaumont Pond, which is connected to the Oswegatchie River. When the group failed to return home, 51-year-old Patrick LaPlante of Newton Falls, went to the area to check on them. The individuals were identified as 33-year-old Bryan LaPlante of Newton Falls; 48-year-old Michael Booth of Oswegatchie; and a 6-year-old boy from Newton Falls.
While searching along the shoreline, Patrick LaPlante located Bryan LaPlante, who fell through the ice. As Patrick attempted to crawl toward him to help, he also fell through the ice. Patrick was able to remove himself from the water but was unable to locate the two remaining individuals.
Patrick LaPlante reported the incident and returned to his residence to warm up. Shortly afterward, the 6-year-old boy arrived at the residence on foot after walking from the scene. Both Patrick LaPlante and the child were transported to Clifton-Fine Hospital for treatment of hypothermia.
Law enforcement, fire, and rescue crews responded to the scene. Rescue personnel later located Bryan LaPlante and Michael Booth unresponsive in the water, accounting for all individuals involved. Both men were removed from the water and transported to Gouverneur Hospital with CPR in progress. They were later pronounced dead at the hospital.
The investigation remains ongoing.