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(Update: 12:55pm June 15, 2020): The West Nyack FD and Rockland County Hazmat unit determined there were no airborne chemicals or any other safety hazards for the family, first responders or neighbors to be concerned with. “The Clarkstown Police are saddened by incidents such as these when a life is lost. We would like to remind everyone that services are available such as The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255). The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals,” the Clarkstown Police said in a statement.

(Earlier): The Clarkstown Police Department responded to a report of a possible overdose victim at in West Nyack around 3pm today.  Upon arrival at 5 Dutch Ct., officers observed a man dead inside the home, along with an unknown chemical. The West Nyack Fire Department and the Rockland County Hazmat Team were called in to help secure the scene. Police say there is no immediate threat to the neighboring residents or homes. The investigation is still ongoing, into both the cause of death and chemical in the residence. If anyone has information regarding this incident they are asked to please contact the Clarkstown Detective Bureau at 845-639-5800.

The protests that have been held around the county marking the George Floyd tragedy in Minnesota have only been peaceful affairs with no incidents or arrests. Rockland County sheriff Lou Falco is proud of that, and encourages peaceful demonstrations, so long as they do not get violent or cause damage. Falco says he’s not opposed to reforms, but cries around the country to de-fund police departments are misguided…

The Minneapolis City Council has been working to dismantle their police department in the wake of the George Floyd incident. The four officers involved have all been charged in his murder.

Spring Valley police are reportedly investigating a shooting yesterday at the Kearsing Parkway Apartments. The incident happened late Saturday afternoon. Nearby residents were warned to avoid the area. No further information was available. If you have any information call the Spring Valley Police Department at 845-356-7400. 

A 32 year-old Hillcrest man was arrested over the weekend in the shooting
murders of two Valley Cottage women. Clarkstown Police say Robert Williams III was arrested based on an investigation that spanned several states and included many law enforcement agencies. Williams was charged with two counts of second degree murder and other charges stemming from the May 26th killings of 63 year-old Wanda Castor and her 27 year-old daughter, Kathleen Castor. He was arraigned in a video conference Saturday and is being held in the Rockland County Jail. If you have any information about the murders, contact the Clarkstown Police Detective Bureau at 845-639-5840.

Hillburn’s mayor, the village board, and the entire village is devastated and in mourning following the passing of long-time former mayor Brian Miele on Tuesday. Hillburn’s current mayor, Joseph Tursi, ran down a long list of Miele’s accomplishments, including building a new youth center, improving the area’s water system and standing up to former governor Mario Cuomo who at one time wanted to completely shut down the 4th Street Bridge for repairs. Mayor Tursi called Tuesday “Hillburn’s saddest day”…

Miele was a trustee from 1975 to ‘77, then served as mayor from ‘77 to 1998 and again from 2003 to 2009. He also served in the legislature from 1991 through ’99. He was 70 years old.