Holly MatkinDannemora, NY – New York State Police (NYSP) Trooper Joshua “Josh” Gushlaw died in an off-duty snowmobile crash on Feb. 20.
Investigators said the 31-year-old trooper was snowmobiling about three miles away from the Lyon Mountain trailhead when he lost control of the sled, veered off-course, and slammed into multiple trees, WNBC reported.
Trooper Gushlaw succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Plattsburgh Supervisor Michael Cashman called the young trooper’s death “a tragic loss,” the Press-Republican reported.
“My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Trooper Joshua Gushlaw from New York State Troop B Plattsburgh,” Cashman said. “We should all be thankful for his service to our community and state. Keep Joshua, his family and friends close in thought and prayer. Rest well Trooper.”
Trooper Gushlaw served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps prior to his career in law enforcement, according to his obituary.
“Josh earned numerous medals and badges during his military service while completing two tours overseas,” the tribute read.
He graduated from Plattsburgh State University with a bachelor’s degree in expeditionary studies in 2014, and completed the law enforcement academy two years later.
Trooper Gushlaw was assigned to his hometown of Plattsburgh during his six years of service with the NYSP.
“He served proudly until his untimely passing. His service and dedication will forever be honored by his brothers and sisters in grey,” his obituary read.
Trooper Gushlaw leaves behind his wife, Katie, and his sons, two-year-old Maverick and one-year-old Jaxx.
He is also survived by his parents, siblings, grandmothers, in-laws, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Trooper Gushlaw was laid to rest Feb. 25.
Condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Trooper Gushlaw. We stand with our brothers and sisters of @nyspolice as the get through this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/Q2FHd6iLGs
— Ryan Law (@FMRPBANYSPres) February 22, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of New York State Police Trooper Joshua “Josh” Gushlaw, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
