NY State Police Sergeant Killed in Tragic Motorcycle Crash

EAST FISHKILL, NY (September 16, 2025) — A New York State Police sergeant died in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on the Taconic State Parkway early Monday morning, authorities said. The crash occurred at approximately 6:31 a.m. near mile marker 36.1 southbound in the Town of East Fishkill.

A preliminary investigation determined that a 2025 Ducati motorcycle was traveling southbound when the operator lost control.

The operator, identified as Sergeant/Station Commander Nigel K. Barnett, 49, of Poughkeepsie, NY, was ejected from the motorcycle and struck the guardrail on the western shoulder.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Sergeant/Station Commander Nigel Barnett, who was killed in a motorcycle crash this morning while traveling to work,” said the New York State Police in an official statement. “Sergeant Barnett was a 19-year veteran of the New York State Police, serving with dedication and distinction throughout his career. His commitment to public safety, his leadership, and his steady presence will be deeply missed by the members of our Division and the communities he served.”

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Sergeant Barnett’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts as we honor his service and sacrifice.”

“Today, New York State Police Troop K tragically lost Sergeant and Station Commander Nigel K. Barnett. A 19-year veteran, Sergeant Barnett devoted his career to protecting others and serving his community with selfless dedication”, said Governor Kathy Hochul. “I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones and colleagues, and join them in honoring his life and service during this time of profound loss.”

Despite immediate life-saving measures, Sergeant Barnett was pronounced deceased at the scene. Sergeant Barnett was a 19-year veteran of the New York State Police, serving most recently as the Station Commander at State Police Cortlandt, Troop K.

New York State Police Troop K covers all of Westchester, providing primary law enforcement services, especially on state roads and major thoroughfares like the Taconic State Parkway, Interstate 684, and Interstate 95 through Rye, Port Chester, Mamaroneck, Larchmont, New Rochelle, Pelham and Mount Vernon, while also supplementing local police in these and other areas.

The collision remains under investigation.

This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.