Norway, N.Y. - As sump pumps, chainsaws and utiltiy crews continue to clean up from the Halloween storm, authorites have said it cost the life of an 82 year old man.
The Diocese of Albany confirmed that Father Thomas Connery of Glenville was traveling in that area last night when his vehicle was swept away.
Bishop Edward Scharfenberger released a statement sayting
We are so saddened to learn of Father Thomas Connery’s tragic death, but we know that he died as he lived — serving the people of God without fear or concern for himself. Father Connery was a devoted priest who served faithfully for 56 years and just weeks ago had accepted a new assignment as sacramental minister for Sts. Anthony and Joseph Church in Herkimer as well as St. John the Baptist in Newport. May he rest in peace, and may his family be comforted by the faith that served as Father Connery’s strength and foundation throughout his life of ministry. -Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger
A witness said they saw Connery driving his car on Military Road in the Town of Norway. The brook had overflowed its banks and water ran into the road and the ditches of the roadway had been undermined and the road surface at the shoulder of the road collapsed. Police say his car got trapped on the side of the road and as he tried to get out of the car he lost his footing and was carried by the waters.
State Police Underwater Recovery Team found Connery's body this morning after floodwaters had receded.