‘A HAPPY ENDING’

Missing Oneonta

Man Found Safe

By LIBBY CUDMORE • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com

ONEONTA – Chester S. Kucharski Jr., reported missing after leaving Bassett Hospital in January, has been found safe and in good health, according to Oneonta Police Chief Doug Brenner.

“He checked into the Super 8 Motel on Southside and used his own name,” said Brenner. “The clerk recognized him and called us.”

Kucharski, 67, was last seen on camera leaving Bassett around 3:50 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 25. He was considered a “vulnerable adult” at the time he was reported missing.

Police met with Kucharski at the motel and he told them he had been in New Jersey. “I don’t think he had any idea he was missing,” said Brenner.

Police also referred him to social services.

“It’s a happy ending,” said Brenner.