Fulton County Area News

12/20/2025

DEC AND SARATOGA COUNTY ANNOUNCE COMPLETION OF HANS CREEK SNOWMOBILE TRAIL

Trail Connects New Yorkers to the Outdoors through Public Recreational Access

New 11-Mile Trail Connects Great Sacandaga Lake to Area’s Extensive Snowmobile Trail Network

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Saratoga County today announced the completion and opening of the new 11-mile-long Hans Creek Snowmobile Trail. The new trail runs through lands owned by the Boeselager family in the towns of Providence and Edinburg. The trail provides a safer and more secure connection between communities around Great Sacandaga Lake and the Saratoga County trail system.

The construction and successful completion of the trail took the effort and dedication of multiple partners over the last nine years working together alongside DEC. Saratoga Snowmobile Association, in partnership with Saratoga County, secured funding through the County’s economic development and trails grant programs to help complete several bridge projects along with trail construction. DEC built a larger 40-foot-long bridge along the trail using State Environmental Protection Funds and New York Works funding. The town of Edinburg played a vital role in the development of the trail by providing equipment and personnel, and the landowner served as a critical partner in the project’s development.

DEC Regional Director Joe Zalewski said, “DEC continues to invest in projects that improve and expand access to outdoor recreation, especially recreation that safely connects our communities throughout the winter months. Snowmobiling is an important winter activity that contributes to local economies and recreational offerings, and DEC is excited to see this project come to fruition alongside Saratoga County and the Saratoga Snowmobile Association to benefit the surrounding towns.”

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman, Phil Barrett said, “The Hans Creek Trail is a fantastic addition to our robust 200-mile snowmobile network that stretches across Saratoga County. Thanks to the partnership between the County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Saratoga Snowmobile Association, the towns of Edinburg and Providence, and the landowners, residents and visitors have even more scenic miles to explore in beautiful Saratoga County. We also extend our thanks to the numerous snowmobile clubs that help to develop and maintain these trails each season, ensuring snowmobile enthusiasts have safe, well-groomed trails on which to ride.”

President of the Saratoga Snowmobile Association, Chaz Albertson said, “We are thrilled to open this trail to our snowmobiling community for the 2025-2026 season and beyond. This project truly demonstrates what can be accomplished when a community comes together. Special thanks are owed to the landowners, volunteers, and supporters whose contributions made this possible.”

The trail runs through lands that are protected through a conservation easement, known as the “Hans Creek Conservation Easement.” The conservation easement was purchased from Open Space Institute by DEC in August 2024. The conservation easement preserves the Hans Creek property as a privately-owned sustainable working forest, protects natural resources, and allows for specific public recreation opportunities. Approximately 8 miles of the 11-mile trail crosses the Hans Creek Conservation Easement.

Funding to purchase the conservation easement was provided through the State Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). The EPF supports climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, improves agricultural resources to promote sustainable agriculture, protects water sources, advances conservation efforts, and provides recreational opportunities for New Yorkers. The EPF also supports New York’s 30x30 initiative, which set a goal of conserving 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030.

12/19/2025

Does anyone recall an Esso station in Speculator in the 70's?
(generic image, not in Speculator)

12/18/2025

Follow City of Gloversville PBA for related updates

Tonight, our PBA was proud to present Johnstown Youth Wrestling with a $500 donation in support of the important work they do for our local youth. This contribution helps ensure area kids continue to have access to quality coaching, positive mentorship, and a safe, welcoming place to grow—both as athletes and as members of our community.

Supporting programs like this strengthens our community today and invests in its future. 💙

12/18/2025

Follow City of Gloversville PBA for related updates

12/18/2025

Visit Early Birds Diner, NY Route 29 Galway

12/16/2025

Charlie Potter Announces Candidacy for New York State Assembly, 118th District

A Vision for Sustainable Growth, Fiscal Integrity, and Stronger Rural Communities

Today, Fulton County Supervisor Charlie Potter proudly announces his candidacy for the New York State Assembly representing the 118th District. With over a decade of dedicated service to Fulton County, Supervisor Potter is ready to bring his proven leadership and deep local experience to State government. Supervisor Potter stands firmly for responsible government spending and keeping property taxes low. Under his leadership, Fulton County has prioritized efficient budgeting and prudent investments, ensuring taxpayers’ dollars are put to work for essential services while protecting family budgets. His record demonstrates that sound fiscal management and transparency can coexist with progress and innovation. “It’s a challenging balance but an essential balance in these trying times.”

A Vision for Sustainable Community Development

Looking ahead, Charlie Potter is committed to advancing policies that promote sustainable growth throughout the 118th District. He believes that strong communities require investment in infrastructure, economic opportunity, and educational resources. Potter’s campaign centers on building resilient rural towns and supporting the traditions, industries, and values that make Upstate New York unique.

One of Supervisor Potter’s top priorities is improving infrastructure by expanding cell phone coverage in rural areas. This initiative is essential for:

• Emergency Response: Faster, more reliable communications can save lives and ensure public safety.

• Economic Development: Better connectivity supports local businesses, attracts new investments, and enables entrepreneurs.

• Education: Students and teachers alike benefit from access to digital resources and remote learning opportunities.

• Agriculture: Modern farming relies on technology for efficiency, market access, maximum annual yield, and innovation.

By bridging the digital divide, Potter aims to empower every community across the 118th District to thrive in a connected world.

Charlie Potter is honored to stand alongside Republican Candidate for Governor Elise Stefanik in their shared commitment to advancing the interests of Upstate New York. In 2013, Charlie Potter was the first person from Fulton County to endorse Elise Stefanik as Congresswoman. Together, they will champion initiatives that strengthen local economies, safeguard rural traditions, and ensure that every voice from the North Country to the Mohawk Valley is heard in Albany.

Supervisor Charlie Potter invites all residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to join him in building a brighter future for the 118th District. With optimism, integrity, and a clear vision, he is ready to represent the people of Upstate New York and deliver results that matter."

12/15/2025

Good point

12/15/2025

FULTON COUNTY SHERIFF: MULTIPLE ARRESTS FROM 12/1 TO 12/7

Arrested:

Tyrell H. Thomas, a 30 year old male from Brooklyn, was charged in the City of Johnstown court with Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd Degree, a Class A Misdemeanor

Ryan J. Edwards, a 42 year old male from Edinburg, was charged in the City of Johnstown court with Criminal Possession of a Narcotic Drug 4th Degree, a Class C Felony; Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree Intent to Sell, a Class B Felony; and was arrested on a warrant out of the City of Gloversville

Cassondra S. Stumbrice, a 39 year old female from Gloversville, was charged in the City of Johnstown court with Criminal Possession of a Narcotic Drug 4th Degree, a Class C Felony; Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree Intent to Sell, a Class B Felony

Francis A. Ryan III, a 30 year old male from Gloversville, was arrested on a warrant issued by Town of Johnstown Court; and was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor

Carson J. Richardson, a 18 year old male from Fort Johnson, was charged in the Town of Perth Court with Burglary 3rd Degree, a Class D Felony; and Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor

Kristian L. Lyons, a 43 year old male from Gloversville, was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Burglary 3rd Degree, a Class D Felony; and Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor; and was charged in the City of Gloversville Court with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the Third Degree, an Unclassified Misdemeanor

Ivette M. Arroyo, a 51 year old female from Mayfield, was charged in the Town of Mayfield Court with Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor

Peter R. Anadio Jr., a 47 year old male from Gloversville, was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the Third Degree, an Unclassified Misdemeanor; was charged in the Town of Northampton Court with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle 3rd Degree, a Class A Misdemeanor; and was arrested on a warrant issued out of the City of Johnstown

Ashton M. Pison, a 30 year old male from Gloversville, was arrested on a warrant issued out of the Town of Johnstown Court

Chad J. Dorman, a 45 year old male from Johnstown, was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Bail Jumping 3rd, a Class A Misdemeanor; and was arrested on a warrant issued out of the Town of Johnstown Court

Rogelio Tavares Hernandez, a 45 year old male from Johnstown, was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Registration Suspended, an Unclassified Misdemeanor

Israel A. Acuna, a 41 year old male from Gloversville, was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3rd Degree

Matthew A. Gonzalez, a 34 year old male from Broadalbin, was charged in the Town of Broadalbin Court with Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor;

Sarah L. Dwight, a 44 year old female from Johnstown, was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Registration Suspended, an Unclassified Misdemeanor

Nicholas Etherton Jr., a 62 year old male from Johnstown, was charged in the Town of Johnstown Court with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Registration Suspended, an Unclassified Misdemeanor

Heather M. Coro, a 42 year old female from Vermont, was charged in the Town of Mayfield Court with Bail Jumping 3rd Degree, a Class A Misdemeanor; and was arrested out of the Town of Mayfield Court on a warrant

The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office handled 187 incidents from 12/1/25 to 12/7/25 including 4 Animal Complaints, 1 Disorderly Conduct, 5 Domestic Violence Complaints, 1 Fraud, 2 Larcenies, 24 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 29 Traffic Stops, 2 Trespasses, 3 Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, and 3 Welfare Checks.

22 arrests were made.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

12/15/2025

GLOVERSVILLE POLICE: 287 CALLS LAST WEEK, MULTIPLE ARRESTS

The Gloversville Police Department made the following arrests from December 8th, 2025, through December 14th, 2025.

- Jenna L. Olivia, a 33-year-old female from Gloversville, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree.

- Amaya L. Jones, a 42-year-old female from Gloversville, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the Second Degree.

- Patrick F. St. Pierre, a 54-year-old male from Gloversville, Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

- Stephan L. Chase, a 28-year-old male from Middle Grove, Petit Larceny.

- Justin L. Persen, a 26-year-old male from Gloversville, Disorderly Conduct.

- Olen T. Heroth, a 28-year-old male from Gloversville, Bench Warrant.

- Michael E. Gargiulo, a 44-year-old male from Johnstown, Assault in the Third Degree, Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

- Kyle Z. Case, a 35-year-old male from Gloversville, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree (2X), Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree (2X).

- Andrew S. Rutauskas Sr., a 39-year-old male from Gloversville, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree.

There were a total of 287 calls for service in the past week. 13 of these were Domestic Violence complaints. 13 were Disorderly Conduct complaints. There was 1 reported Overdose.

While there is probable cause for the issuance of these arrests, all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

12/14/2025

In a confidential mental health report sealed during the 1974 court proceedings of Adirondack Killer Robert F. Garrow in Hamilton County, NY, Mr. Garrow was identified as leaving his home for a time period on July 25th, 1973 before later experiencing an 'episode' that caused him to abruptly return home. Mr. Garrow subsequently fled to the Adirondacks on the very early morning of July 26, 1973. Miss Allen was last seen on July 25th, 1973 in an area that is 45 minutes directly east of Garrow's Syracuse home [along NY Route 5]. According to Mr. Garrow's work record he was scheduled for a regular day off on July 25, 1973. The record indicated that Garrow had in fact worked a normal shift from 8 am to 4 pm the day before. According to a written statement still contained in the overall Garrow case file a witness put a vehicle closely matching the description of Garrow's in the radius of the Allen scene near the time that Allen went missing. Garrow was first linked as a suspect in the Allen case sometime after his capture in August 1973. There in fact remains much more in relation to Garrow's potential connection to the case of Martha Allen.

The following is a portion of a mental health record ordered unsealed in 1977 by the Hamilton County Court in Lake Pleasant, NY:

"Mr. Garrow had been living out a recurrent fantasy of flight and fear. It was early on that morning [July 26] that he slipped out of the house before his wife awoke, on what was to be his final journey to the wilderness area in which he was born and raised. Mr. Garrow had started out once before the previous evening his car, which by then had been stocked with the provisions for what he expected and believed would be his final journey before taking up a solitary life as a fugitive living off the land in the wilds of the Adirondack Mountains. An hour out of Syracuse, however, he was suddenly afflicted with the excruciating headache, nausea, vomiting, and sweating which had so frequently visited him during the chaotic weeks before, and on this occasion caused him to turn back home. His stay home on Wednesday night [July 25] , however, was a brief one, and spent in almost constant watching and readiness for flight, occasioned by his then certain belief that an attempted capture was imminent. And so, on Thursday morning [July 26], in the midst of a thunderstorm, he headed to the woods near Speculator...".

Follow The 518 Veil for related updates in this and several other cold case investigations.

𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐇𝐀 𝐋𝐎𝐔𝐈𝐒𝐄 𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐍
𝐀𝐆𝐄 21 | 𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐘, 𝐍𝐘 | 1973

Martha Louise Allen vanished in July 1973 from Oneida Castle, New York. Twenty three days later, her body was found in Black Creek near Verona Beach State Park. Her case has remained unsolved for over fifty years, but the circumstances surrounding her disappearance place it squarely within one of the most dangerous periods in Central New York history.

This was not random.
This was an abduction followed by homicide.

📍 THE CONTEXT THAT MATTERS

1973 was not a quiet year. Hitchhiking was common. Serial predators were active. Law enforcement was already tracking mobile offenders who targeted women along highways, rural corridors, and secondary roads.

Martha lived on 9th Street in Oneida Castle. She told her grandfather she planned to go to Syracuse. No car was reported. Route 5 ran directly through town and was a known hitchhiking route at the time.

That mattered.
That made her vulnerable.

⏱️ THE TIMELINE PROBLEM

• Last verified sighting: morning of July 25, 1973
• Reported missing: July 26
• Body discovered: August 17 in Black Creek

That initial delay gave the offender time to move, clean, plan, and choose a disposal site without immediate pressure.

🧠 WHY BLACK CREEK MATTERS

Black Creek is north of Martha’s home.

If she was headed west toward Syracuse, she should never have ended up there.

That tells us one of two things: • She was picked up under false pretenses and driven north
• Or she was intercepted locally by someone she trusted or felt safe enough to enter a vehicle with

Black Creek is not accidental. It requires familiarity with the area. This was a deliberate disposal location.

⚠️ THE CONDITION OF THE BODY

Martha’s body was described as partially decomposed after twenty three days in summer conditions.

That raises unanswered questions: • Was she held somewhere before death
• Was her body stored and moved later
• Or was she submerged elsewhere and relocated

Those questions were never fully resolved.

🔍 KNOWN LOCAL PREDATORS ACTIVE IN 1973

⚠️ BERNARD HATCH
Hatch was actively abducting and murdering women in Oneida County during this period. His pattern involved outdoor abductions, rural movement, and water associated disposal sites. He is deceased. Any confirmation now would be forensic, not prosecutorial.

⚠️ ROBERT GARROW

Robert Garrow was active in Central New York at the same time and lived in Syracuse.

According to a confidential mental health report sealed during Garrow’s 1974 court proceedings in Hamilton County, Garrow left his home for a period of time on July 25, 1973, before experiencing an episode that caused him to abruptly return home.

Garrow then fled to the Adirondacks in the very early morning hours of July 26, 1973.

Martha Allen was last seen on July 25, 1973, in an area approximately 45 minutes east of Garrow’s Syracuse home along Route 5.

According to Garrow’s work record: • July 25, 1973 was a scheduled day off
• He had worked a normal shift from 8 am to 4 pm the day prior

A written statement contained in the broader Garrow case file placed a vehicle closely matching Garrow’s in the radius of the Allen disappearance near the time she went missing.

Garrow was first formally linked as a suspect in the Allen case after his capture in August 1973.

There remains substantially more material tying Garrow’s movements, timing, and mental state to this window.

🧠 FROM A MENTAL HEALTH RECORD ORDERED UNSEALED IN 1977

The following excerpt was released by order of the Hamilton County Court in Lake Pleasant, New York:

> Mr. Garrow had been living out a recurrent fantasy of flight and fear. He began a journey on the evening of July 25, believing it would be his final departure before living as a fugitive. Approximately an hour outside Syracuse, he was overcome by severe physical symptoms and turned back. His return home that night was brief and spent in a state of heightened vigilance. On the morning of July 26, during a thunderstorm, he departed again, heading toward the woods near Speculator.

This places Garrow mobile, unaccounted for, and psychologically unstable during the exact window of Martha Allen’s disappearance.

🧬 WHY THIS CASE IS STILL SOLVABLE

Even if suspects are deceased, truth is still attainable.

If Martha’s clothing or remains still exist: • M Vac DNA testing
• Touch DNA from seams and fabric folds
• Skeletal re analysis for overlooked trauma
• Investigative genetic genealogy to confirm or exclude

Silence is not resolution.

🕯️ THE BOTTOM LINE

Martha Allen disappeared during a year when multiple predators were operating freely across Central New York.

The offender knew the roads.
Knew the water.
Knew the timing.

The question that remains is not whether answers are possible. It’s why they have never been fully pursued.

12/13/2025

Follow The 518 Veil for related updates from this and other cold case investigations.

12/13/2025