Newburgh Man Dies After Cliff Diving in Beacon

A summer evening at one of the Hudson Valley's popular swimming spots ended in tragedy after a Newburgh man died while cliff diving in Beacon.

Cliff Diver Killed in Beacon, NY

According to the Beacon Police Department, police, firefighters, and EMS crews were dispatched at approximately 7:34 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, after receiving a report that someone had jumped into Fishkill Creek and failed to resurface.

Cliff Diving Accident in Beacon, NY

Once first responders arrived at the scene, located just southeast of 508 Fishkill Avenue, witnesses told police that 34-year-old Vincent Javinett of Newburgh had jumped from a cliff into the water but never resurfaced. After several minutes, those at the scene called 911 for help.

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Officials said that because of the amount of time Javinett had been underwater, there was little chance of survival. Beacon firefighters, who arrived at the scene in just six minutes, entered the creek in an attempt to recover him but were unable to locate him.

Newburgh Man's Body Recovered in Beacon, NY

New York State Police were then called to the scene with a dive team, which recovered his body from the water. Following the recovery, Beacon Police began an investigation by reviewing video evidence from the scene and determined that the incident was a tragic accident.

"Our thoughts and sympathies go out to Mr. Javinett's family and loved ones," the department said in a statement.

Police are also using the tragedy to remind residents about the dangers of cliff diving. Officials warned that jumping into Fishkill Creek is extremely dangerous and should never be attempted.

While cliff jumping may seem like a fun way to cool off on a summer day, officials hope this heartbreaking tragedy reminds others of the dangers and encourages them to stay out of the water.