A tragic incident occurred when a college student passed away following a fall while hiking with his sister. William Cooper Gatch, 23, was on an unmarked trail at Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, Connecticut, on April 6 when the accident happened. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) received an emergency call around 11:45 am on that day.
According to DEEP, emergency responders found Gatch, who had sustained injuries from the fall, in the woods. Unfortunately, he did not survive his injuries at the scene. The DEEP Environmental Conservation Police (EnCon) are leading the investigation, collaborating with the State’s Attorney’s Office in New Haven and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death, which appears to be accidental.
The DEEP extended condolences to the family and expressed gratitude to the Hamden Police Department, Hamden Fire Department, and EMS services for their assistance. Friends of Gatch shared heartfelt tributes on social media, describing him as a selfless and caring individual.
Sleeping Giant State Park, a popular hiking destination in Hamden, Connecticut, offers scenic views and recreational activities. Gatch, survived by his parents, sister, and grandmother, was remembered fondly by those who knew him. Whitley, his sister, studies at Yale University nearby.
