Lost New York Hiker Allegedly Took ‘Magic’ Mushrooms

What started as a search for a group of lost hikers in Orange County, NY, ended with one hiker facing a serious felony drug charge.

Hikers Lost in Orange County, NY

According to New York State Police, the incident began at approximately 8:02 p.m. on Monday, June 15, when New York State Park Police responded to reports of lost hikers near Stahahe Lake in Harriman State Park.

Hiker High on Mushrooms Lost Harriman State Park

Upon arrival, authorities launched an investigation and learned that members of the hiking group had become separated after a verbal altercation reportedly broke out among them.

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Investigators said one member of the group, identified as 30-year-old Jashiya B. Smith of Brooklyn, NY, allegedly consumed psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as "magic mushrooms," before becoming overwhelmed and running off into the woods alone.

Hiker High on Magic Mushrooms in Tuxedo, NY

After wandering through the park, Smith eventually made his way to Arden Valley Road near Island Pond Road in the Town of Tuxedo, where he was able to contact authorities for assistance. While investigating the incident, police allegedly discovered that Smith was in possession of approximately 45 grams of psilocybin mushrooms.

Magic Mushrooms Confiscated

Smith was subsequently arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 2nd degree, hallucinogen, a Class A-II felony. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the State Police barracks in Monroe, NY for processing.

Following his arraignment in the Town of Tuxedo Court on June 16, Smith was released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to return to court on July 8 at 1:30 p.m.

The investigation remains ongoing. When more information is available, we will update this article. If there has been a change to this information, such as charges being dropped or dismissed, please email me CJ@Hudsonvalleycountry.com to make the necessary change.