Press Releases
04/08/2026
Georgia Man Identified as Victim of Fall at Sleeping Giant State Park
(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has identified the person who died after falling in Sleeping Giant State Park on Monday, April 6, as William Gatch, age 23, of Statesboro, GA.
The State Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death. DEEP Environmental Conservation (EnCon) Police continue to investigate this incident. The preliminary investigation indicates it was accidental.
DEEP extends condolences to William’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
(Below is the original press release from Monday, April 6th, 2026.)
23-year-old man dies after fall at Sleeping Giant State Park
On Monday, April 6th, 2026, at approximately 11:45 am, the DEEP Dispatch Center received a call regarding a hiker who fell from an unmarked trail in Sleeping Giant State Park. Emergency response resources were sent to the State Park and located a 23-year-old male who sustained injuries as a result of this fall.
The hiker was found in the woods and unfortunately succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
DEEP Environmental Conservation Police (EnCon) are leading the investigation into this incident. As a matter of protocol, EnCon is working with the State’s Attorney’s Office in New Haven and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which will determine cause and manner of death. Preliminary investigation indicates that this fatality was accidental.
DEEP sends its condolences to the family and will provide further information once it becomes available. The decedent’s identity is not being released at this time.
DEEP would also like to thank the Hamden Police Department, Hamden Fire Department, and EMS services from American Medical Response for their assistance with this incident.
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Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110