Ryan J. Cloe Obituary, Jefferson County Found Dead Death: 21-Year-Old Carthage-Area Man Found Dead in Chaumont Bay After Urgent Multi-Agency Search Operation
The Jefferson County community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 21-year-old Ryan J. Cloe of Carthage, New York, following a tragic incident in Chaumont Bay that led to a large-scale emergency search operation on Friday afternoon.
According to the New York State Police, troopers from SP Watertown responded to Chaumont Bay in the village of Chaumont on May 15, 2026, at approximately 2:50 p.m. after receiving reports that a person had fallen into the water from a small aluminum boat traveling through the bay.
Emergency crews from multiple agencies quickly mobilized in an urgent effort to locate the missing boater. Responding departments included the Chaumont Fire Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Cape Vincent Ambulance, and the Jefferson County STAR Team. As search efforts intensified, additional support was requested from the City of Watertown Fire Department, the Henderson Fire Department fire boat, and the LifeNet helicopter.
After an extensive search operation involving both water and aerial resources, authorities confirmed that Ryan J. Cloe was recovered from the water by the New York State Police Underwater Recovery Team. Tragically, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Officials stated that Cloe was the sole occupant of the boat and was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident. Investigators continue working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding what happened in the moments before he entered the water.
The tragic loss of such a young life has deeply affected the Carthage community, where friends, loved ones, and community members are mourning alongside his family. Though details surrounding the incident remain under investigation, many are reflecting on Ryan’s life, sharing condolences and memories as they struggle to process the sudden tragedy.
Chaumont Bay, known for its scenic waters and recreational boating activity, became the focus of a somber recovery mission as emergency crews worked tirelessly throughout the afternoon. The incident also serves as a painful reminder of the importance of water safety and life jacket use while boating.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and are asking anyone who may have witnessed what occurred to contact the New York State Police and reference case number NY2600619751.
As loved ones grieve this devastating loss, Ryan J. Cloe is being remembered as a young man whose life ended far too soon, leaving behind sorrow, memories, and a community united in mourning and support for his family during this difficult time.