DEC Statement on the Passing of ECO Corey Hornicek

It is with profound sadness that Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the death of Environmental Conservation Police

Officer (ECO) Corey Hornicek, 32, a Region 3 Officer who died Wednesday, Oct. 2, while running near his home. The cause of death at this time is unknown.
"Our hearts go out to ECO Hornicek and his family at this time," DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. "ECO Hornicek represented the best of what our officers stand for. His selflessness and service in protecting the public and environment will live on and be a guiding force for future generations of Conservation Officers."
Hornicek, who graduated in August 2017 from the 21st Basic School for Uniformed Officers and was named Class President, was a native of Hortonville, Sullivan County, and also served as a volunteer firefighter.
In his two years on the job, ECO Hornicek became known as a prolific law enforcement officer, working on a number of illegal solid waste dumping cases, rescuing dozens of animals in the Hudson Valley, and investigating a host of illegal hunting and fishing cases.
ECO Hornicek was an avid hunter and angler with a deep respect for wildlife conservation.
At right, Region 3 ECO Corey Hornicek and aNew York State Trooper with an illegally taken buck.

Through his service and sacrifice, ECO Hornicek dedicated his life to helping others. He epitomized selflessness and public service. Commissioner Seggos ordered flags at DEC to be lowered to half-staff in recognition of his tragic passing. DEC's thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kayla and his family at this time.