On Sunday, July 13, 2025, emergency crews recovered the body of a man from the Housatonic River in New Milford, Connecticut, following a reported drowning. The victim was identified as 43-year-old Simon Hernandez of Yonkers, New York.

New Milford police received multiple 911 calls at approximately 4:10 p.m. reporting a possible drowning near 781 Kent Rd., an area owned and managed by First Light Power, which is accessible to the public. According to the police report, officers spoke with Hernandez’s family, who explained that they were gathered along the riverbank and in the river for a family picnic. At some point, Hernandez entered a deeper section of the river, went under the water, and did not resurface.

A comprehensive search effort was launched, involving the New Milford Police Dive Team, Gaylordsville Fire Department, Waterwitch Fire Department, Sherman Fire Department, Kent Fire Department, and Newtown Underwater Search & Rescue. Underwater drones were deployed to assist in the operation. After approximately three hours of searching, Hernandez was located and pronounced dead at the scene.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Farmington will conduct a post-mortem examination to determine the official cause of death.

New Milford Mayor Pete Bass expressed his condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Simon Hernandez due to drowning at the First Light Property in Gaylordsville. This area of the Housatonic River has strong undercurrents that can pose a significant danger, even to experienced swimmers, and are particularly hazardous for those with little to no swimming experience.” Mayor Bass announced plans to discuss safety measures with First Light Power to address public access to this dangerous section of the river.

Authorities have issued a strong warning to the public, urging people to avoid swimming in the Housatonic River, particularly in the Fisherman’s Cove area of Gaylordsville, due to its hazardous conditions.