Oswego, New York Community Grieves Loss of Longtime Resident Found in Lake Ontario Near Campus
Oswego, New York — The tight-knit Oswego County community is mourning the loss of 76-year-old Barratt A. Gorman, a longtime resident whose life ended tragically in the waters of Lake Ontario on Tuesday night. His passing has left friends, neighbors, and loved ones reflecting on the memories they shared with him over decades.
Authorities report that deputies from the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched at approximately 9:31 p.m. following reports of a man in the water off Route 89, near the SUNY Oswego campus. The location is a familiar spot for residents and students alike, making the news especially unsettling for the community.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel immediately began search and rescue efforts. The nighttime conditions on Lake Ontario presented significant challenges, with darkness and water currents complicating the operation. Despite these difficulties, the teams worked urgently to locate Gorman as quickly as possible.
At approximately 10:20 p.m., responders located Gorman in the lake. Tragically, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officials have not released details about how he came to be in the water, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
Local residents expressed shock at the news, with many describing Gorman as a familiar and friendly face around Oswego. His decades-long presence in the area made him a well-known figure, and his absence will be deeply felt across multiple circles in the community.
Friends and acquaintances recalled his warm personality and his habit of stopping to chat with neighbors during his walks. Several noted that he often shared stories about Oswego’s history, reflecting his deep connection to the place he called home.
Authorities have not indicated any signs of foul play, but the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office continues to gather information. Officials encourage anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the area on Tuesday night to come forward. The community’s cooperation, they say, could be vital to understanding exactly what happened.
The waters of Lake Ontario are known for their beauty, but also for their unpredictability, particularly at night. Safety officials have used this tragic event to remind the public about exercising caution near the shoreline, especially during hours of reduced visibility.
In the days ahead, friends and family of Gorman are expected to hold a memorial to honor his life and the impact he had on those around him. Such gatherings offer a chance for healing and remembrance in the wake of sudden loss.
Oswego will remember Barratt A. Gorman not only for the circumstances of his passing but for the life he lived — a life defined by kindness, community spirit, and a deep love for the place he called home. His absence will leave a lasting void in the heart of Oswego.
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