Ulster deputy sheriff drowns during diver training

TOWN OF OLIVE – An Ulster County deputy sheriff drowned Thursday during diver training at the Ashokan Reservoir in the Town of Olive.
Sergeant Kerry Winters, 51, a 30-year veteran of the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division was rushed to the Broadway campus of the Health Alliance where he was pronounced dead.
Winters may have suffered a medical issue while in the water, sources told Mid-Hudson News. Sheriff Paul VanBlarcum said the investigation into the in-water rescue team dive training operation in the reservoir is in its preliminary stage.
VanBlarcum, who is in his 41st year with the sheriff’s department, knew Winters during his entire tenure.
“Kerry Winters was one of our senior divers,” VanBlarcum said.  “I dove with him for close to 25 years. He was an expert diver and a team leader.”
County Executive Michael Hein said the county is “devastated at the loss” of Winters. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of unspeakable grief for “an individual dedicated to public safety and helping others.”