On the evening of October 8, 2023, emergency services were dispatched to a home on Bradley Avenue in Neversink, New York, for what was reported as a cardiac arrest. Upon their arrival, they discovered 71-year-old Lloyd Eugene Botsford, a Caucasian male, receiving CPR. During their life-saving efforts, responders made a grim discovery: a gunshot wound to his head.
Despite their attempts, Botsford was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into the death of the beloved community member, affectionately known as 'Botsy,' quickly shifted from a medical emergency to a homicide. Suspicion fell upon his son, 46-year-old Drew Botsford, who was subsequently arrested by the New York State Police. He was charged with second-degree murder and remanded to the Sullivan County Jail without bail. Authorities have not released further details about the motive or the specific circumstances that led to the fatal shooting, stating that the investigation is ongoing.
Lloyd Botsford was a well-known and active figure in his community. He was a dedicated member of the Neversink Horseshoe League, where he was fondly called the 'Mr. Miyagi' of horseshoes for his passion and willingness to share his knowledge of the game. For over a decade, he coached women's softball and boys' little league, showing a strong commitment to the youth of the area. He was also a founding member of the Old Hogs Motorcycle Club and led fellow members on numerous adventures. His warm and friendly nature left a lasting impact on those who knew him.