Hunter Dies After Fall From Tree Stand

ROXBURY — A 71-year-old Harrison resident died on November 19 after he slipped and fell climbing a tree stand while hunting in the Vega valley, outside Roxbury.

Roxbury Constable Stephen Williamson reported that Ferdinando Paparatti, 71, was climbing a tree stand when he lost his footing on a rail of the ladder and fell about 12 feet.

When the victim was several hours late in returning from his outing, his son went in search of his father and found Mr. Paparatti on the ground. The tree stand was located several hundred yards from the house where Mr. Paparatti was staying. Due to the difficult terrain, first responders had to utilize an all-terrain vehicle to transport the victim from the accident site.

Ambulance personnel from Roxbury and Margaretville responded. They were assisted by Roxbury Fire Department volunteers.

The Delaware County Medical Examiner pronounced Mr. Paparatti dead at the scene.