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State Officials Urge Caution as Animal Activity Increases Across New York Roads As the leaves change color and daylight fades earlier each evening, state officials are reminding drivers that fall isn’t just scenic—it’s also one of the most dangerous times of year for wildlife collisions. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)  and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)  are urging motorists to stay alert behind the wheel this season as deer and moose become more active, particularly from October through December . “A chance encounter with a deer or moose is much more likely this time of year,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder . “There are steps you can take to decrease your risk so you can get safely to your destination.” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton  echoed the warning, noting that deer and moose are most active at dusk and dawn , when visibility is low. “Motorists should be especially cautious during these times and follow all important safety tips to avoid an accidental encounter with wildlife while driving,” she said. Crash Numbers Spike in Fall Months According to the University at Albany’s Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, there were 32,287 deer-related crashes  statewide last year and 7,616 collisions  involving other animals.Those numbers surge in late fall— 5,854 deer crashes were recorded in November 2024 alone , the highest of any month. The counties with the highest number of deer crashes in 2024 included: Monroe County  – 1,431 crashes Orange County  – 1,366 crashes St. Lawrence County  – 1,266 crashes Jefferson County  – 1,224 crashes Ontario County  – 1,174 crashes Erie County  – 1,001 crashes Why Fall Is the Riskiest Time Fall marks the breeding season  for both deer and moose, causing them to move more frequently and unpredictably across roadways. Their darker coloring also makes them harder to spot at night—especially moose, whose height often places them above the reach of vehicle headlights. New York is home to an estimated 1.1 to 1.3 million white-tailed deer  and about 700 moose , most of which reside in the Adirondack region. Safety Tips for Drivers To stay safe this season, officials recommend the following: Slow down  when deer are near the roadside; they can change direction suddenly. Expect company —if one deer crosses, others are likely nearby. Use headlights  to alert other drivers when wildlife is present. Honk your horn  to scare animals away from the road. Be extra cautious  at dawn and dusk when visibility is low. Never swerve  to avoid an animal—brake firmly and stay in your lane. Stay clear  of injured animals; they may kick or charge if frightened. If you do strike a deer or moose: Pull over safely  and turn on hazard lights. Call police  if the animal blocks traffic or creates a hazard. File an official crash report  if injuries occur or damage exceeds $1,000. Inspect your vehicle  before driving away—if in doubt, call for a tow. As Commissioner Schroeder put it, “Slowing down and staying alert could mean the difference between a close call and a serious crash.” Would you like me to make this version sound more conversational and local-news friendly  (like something you’d read on Explore NY  or a regional outlet), or keep it in this official-yet-readable statewide tone ?

Utica, N.Y. – October 22, 2025 On Tuesday afternoon, Utica Police and Fire Department units responded to a stabbing incident on the 1300 block of Genesee Street at approximately 4:30 p.m. According to police, a 911 call reported that a man had stabbed his girlfriend and that she was inside the residence. When officers arrived, they found a male standing on the sidewalk holding a blood-covered knife. Upon seeing the officers, the man immediately dropped the weapon and raised his hands in surrender. He was detained without further incident and placed into a patrol vehicle. Officers then entered the apartment, where they discovered a woman suffering from multiple stab wounds to her head, neck, and body. She was quickly transported to Wynn Hospital by Utica Police for treatment. Medical staff later confirmed that her injuries were serious but not life-threatening. Investigators determined that an argument had occurred between the two individuals during which the knife changed hands, ultimately resulting in the woman’s injuries. The suspect, identified as Craig Powers, 41, of Utica , was charged with: Assault in the Second Degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree The investigation remains ongoing. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064802073577

This photo from the Sparrow section of the nysth.com website features Lieutenant Tremaine Hughes of the New York State Police, one of the first State Troopers to earn a pilot’s license, dated July 27, 1931. It offers a glimpse into an era when aviation was becoming a vital tool for law enforcement, expanding the reach and capabilities of Troopers across New York State. Have a memory connected to aviation or early NYSP history? We’d love to hear it — share your stories below. Explore more historic photos on our Flickr and the New York State Troopers History website: www.flickr.com/people/nyspolice/ www.nysth.com

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the 15 th Annual Oneida County Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up saw 600 youth volunteers serve the homes of 100 seniors. “Oneida County’s Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up is a testament to the power of community and the importance of giving back,” Picente said. “These youth volunteers show their dedication by helping our seniors prepare for winter, lending a hand with tasks that are vital to the well-being of our elderly residents. I am incredibly proud of these young people, as well as the schools, colleges, and organizations that made this initiative possible. Their efforts demonstrate the compassion and commitment that define our community.” The 15th Annual Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up was a collaboration between the Oneida County Youth Bureau, the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care, and local colleges, school districts, and youth organizations. Volunteers raked and collected leaves, swept porches, sidewalks, and driveways, and brought light refuse to the curb at the homes of seniors throughout the county. Volunteers participated from Utica University baseball, softball, track & field and men’s wrestling, as well as Theta Phi Alpha, Chi Beta Sigma and Kappa Delta Phi sororities, the Organization of Justice Studies and the Young Scholars program; Mohawk Valley Community College Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society; New Hartford High School boys varsity soccer and boys junior varsity football; T.R. Proctor High School Key Club and Art Club; Utica Academy of Science ; Clinton Middle School Student Council and National Junior Honor Society; Notre Dame National Honor Society, National Junior ROTC and varsity and modified football; Whitesboro Middle School ; New York Mills Student Council; Camden High School sports;  Vernon-Verona-Sherrill Interact Club; Sauquoit National Honor Society; Oriskany High School Key Club, Remsen High School National Honor Society; Waterville Student Council; St. Elizabeth College of Nursing ; Safe Schools Mohawk Valley ; Broadway Utica Youth Ambassador Program; Boy Scouts Troop 11 ; Tabernacle Baptist Church and the Michelle Kelly family . “With the outpouring of support given by our youth and the supportive number of youth volunteers represented, these kids see the big picture,” said Youth Bureau Director Kevin Green. “Compassion for those in need, caring enough to do the work, and bringing joy to others are three characteristics these 600 youth volunteers brought to Oneida County's senior citizen population.”   The 2025 Fall Clean-up took place on October 18-19. During the Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up this past April, 465 youth volunteers serviced the homes of more than 100 senior citizens throughout the county. The 2026 Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up is scheduled for April 18-19 and the 2026 Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up is scheduled for October 17-18. Any Oneida County colleges, school districts or youth organizations interested in volunteering should contact the Oneida County Youth Bureau at 315-798-5027. Any senior citizen interested in having their yard cleaned should contact the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care at 315-798-5456.

ANNSVILLE, N.Y.  – Health officials have confirmed a case of rabies in a skunk found in the Town of Annsville. The animal was sent to the New York State Department of Health’s Wadsworth Center for testing on October 16, 2025, where it tested positive the same day. According to officials, two animals—a horse and a puppy—were exposed to the rabid skunk. Both animals were unvaccinated at the time of exposure. Local authorities are now working to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent the spread of the virus. Rabies is a deadly disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is primarily spread through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Health experts remind residents to keep pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date and to avoid contact with wild or stray animals acting unusually. Anyone who may have had contact with a skunk or other wild animals in the Annsville NY area is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or the local health department immediately. For more information about rabies prevention and what to do if you suspect exposure, visit the New York State Department of Health website or contact your local public health office.

October 19, 2025 - Press Release: The New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation at Poughkeepsie (BCI), in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Joint Terrorism Task Force (FBI-JTTF), announces the arrest of Christopher Moynihan , 34, of Clinton, New York, for Making a Terroristic Threat, a Class D felony. On October 18, 2025, the State Police were advised by the FBI-JTTF that Moynihan  had made threats to kill a member of Congress. Following a thorough investigation, Moynihan was arrested and arraigned before the Town of Clinton Court. He was remanded to the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center in lieu of $10,000 cash bail, a $30,000 bond, or an $80,000 partially secured bond. Moynihan  is scheduled to appear in court on October 23, 2025. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/clinton-man-arrested-making-terroristic-threats-toward-member-congress

Press Release On October 10, 2025, State Police arrested: Details: On June 12, 2025, Troopers received information reporting numerous animals that appeared neglected and in need of veterinary care on a property on State Route 40 in Whitehall, NY.  The investigation led to the executing of a search warrant on August 30, 2025, during which three animals (2 dogs, 1 cat) were found to be in poor physical condition and were seized. On September 27, 2025, due to the continued investigation 28 additional animals (8 dogs, 19 cats, and 1 canadian goose) were removed from the property due to poor physical and living conditions. The cats and dogs were turned over to the care of local veterinary offices. The canadian goose was released to the care of North Country Wild Care. All three individuals surrendered themselves to SP Granville for processing where they were each given and appearance ticket returnable to the Whitehall Town Court on October 27, 2025.  Arrest: Jessica L. Austin , 43 of Granville, NY for 22 counts of Torturing or injuring Animals/Failure to provide Sustenance- Agriculture & Markets Law- 353 A Christopher J. Mckinney , 43 of Granville for 24 counts of Torturing or injuring Animals/Failure to provide Sustenance- Agriculture & Markets Law- 353 A Charles W. Mckinney , 81 of Granville, NY for 4 counts of Torturing or injuring Animals/Failure to provide Sustenance- Agriculture & Markets Law- 353 A

On October 17, 2025, at approximately 2:54 p.m., State Police responded to a report of a serious personal injury motor vehicle accident on Oswego Road in the town of Clay. A preliminary investigation determined that a 2018 Kawasaki motorcycle operated by Michael J. Rubino , age 30, of Liverpool, NY, was traveling southbound on Oswego Road at a high rate of speed. At the same time, a 2021 BMW operated by Thomas A. Aloi , age 79, of Baldwinsville, NY, was turning southbound onto Oswego Road from the Splash Car Wash Express parking lot, located directly across from Rosewood Place. The motorcycle subsequently collided with the rear driver’s side of the BMW. Michael J. Rubino was transported by ambulance to Upstate University Hospital with serious injuries and is currently listed in critical condition. Thomas A. Aloi was not injured. The investigation remains ongoing. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-serious-injury-motorcycle-accident-clay

HORSEHEADS, N.Y. —  The New York State Police in Horseheads have arrested Shyonna M. Pacheco , age 26, of Pine City, NY, following a months-long investigation into the unlawful release of confidential information. Pacheco is a police officer with the Elmira City Police Department. According to the State Police, the investigation began on July 22, 2025 , after the Elmira Police Department reported possible leaks of sensitive information. Investigators subsequently launched an extensive probe, which included the execution of search warrants at two separate locations. The investigation led to Pacheco’s arrest on October 15, 2025 . She has been charged with: Hindering Prosecution in the Second Degree  – Class E Felony Two Counts of Official Misconduct  – Class A Misdemeanor Two Counts of Obstruction of Governmental Administration in the Second Degree  – Class A Misdemeanor Pacheco was arraigned in the City of Elmira Court  and released on her own recognizance pending future court proceedings. State Police confirmed that the Elmira Police Department  has been fully cooperative throughout the investigation. The Schuyler County District Attorney’s Office  has been assigned as special prosecutor. Authorities say the case remains an active and ongoing investigation.

OHIO, N.Y. —  On October 12, 2025, at approximately 7:30 p.m., New York State Police responded to a report of a missing person at a remote campsite off Christman Road Spur, accessible only by an ATV trail in a heavily wooded area of the Town of Ohio, Herkimer County. According to investigators, a 12-year-old reported that their hunting companion had become lost in the woods. State Police immediately launched a search effort, deploying K9 units, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and members of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). At around 8:00 a.m. on October 13, search teams located the missing individual, identified as Ryan D. Zawtocki , age 28, of Salisbury Center, NY. Zawtocki told troopers he became disoriented and took shelter overnight in an unoccupied nearby camp to stay warm. Further investigation revealed that Zawtocki had been hunting with the 12-year-old, who had previously completed a hunter safety course. During the outing, Zawtocki allegedly provided the juvenile with an illegal semi-automatic rifle. The child, unfamiliar with the weapon, discharged one round into the ground before the two became separated. The juvenile eventually sought help from a nearby residence after being unable to locate Zawtocki. Both were later found unharmed. Following the investigation, on October 15, 2025 , Zawtocki was charged with: Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Assault Rifle)  – Class D Felony Endangering the Welfare of a Child  – Class A Misdemeanor Zawtocki was arraigned in the Town of Ohio Court and released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to reappear in court on December 2, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. State Police were assisted by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Forest Rangers. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/salisbury-man-charged-weapon-and-child-endangerment-offenses

On October 14, 2025, at approximately 5:50 a.m., members of the New York State Police responded to a report of a fully engulfed structure fire on Overlook Avenue in the town of Clifton, with reports of possible entrapment. The Star Lake and Cranberry Lake Fire Departments arrived on scene and worked to extinguish the fire. Once inside the residence, the New York State Fire Investigator, along with firefighters, discovered two deceased individuals. A third occupant, identified as Shelly L. Carlisle, age 57, of Oswegatchie, NY , was able to escape the residence but sustained severe burns. She was initially transported to Canton-Potsdam Hospital and later transferred to Upstate University Hospital, where she remains in critical condition. The St. Lawrence County Coroner responded to the scene and ordered the removal of the deceased. This incident remains under investigation by the New York State Police and the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

UPDATE: Albany Woman Arrested Following Fatal I-787 Crash Published October 13, 2025 | Albany, NY New York State Police have arrested Imahjai Sutherland , 25, of Albany, in connection with a deadly crash that occurred early Sunday morning on I-787. Sutherland is charged with two counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree , two counts of Assault in the Second Degree , Aggravated Vehicular Homicide , Driving While Intoxicated , and several Vehicle and Traffic Law violations . Investigators determined that Sutherland was the driver of the vehicle involved in the crash. During the investigation, Troopers observed signs of intoxication, and a blood sample was collected at Albany Medical Center to determine the presence of drugs or alcohol. The two passengers who died in the crash have been identified as Jamilla N. Tirado , 27, and Cepelynn T. Johnson , 25, both of Albany. After receiving treatment for her injuries, Sutherland was transported to SP Latham , where she was processed on all charges. She was later arraigned in Albany City Court  and remanded to the Albany County Correctional Facility without bail . Original Report – October 12, 2025 At approximately 6:58 a.m. on October 12 , while investigating a separate incident, State Police discovered a vehicle that had gone off the roadway and down an embankment on I-787 southbound near Exit 5 in Albany . Troopers found three occupants inside the vehicle, all suffering from severe injuries. Two passengers were pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver—now identified as Sutherland—was transported to Albany Medical Center with serious injuries. The I-90 Exit 6A off-ramps to I-787 southbound  were temporarily closed in both directions to allow for the investigation, with the closure expected to be cleared by early afternoon. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/update-state-police-investigate-one-car-fatal-crash-i-787-albany