Investigating the Other Side with Katonah Paranormal

While Westchester is known for its significant landmarks and historical sites, the area is also flush with paranormal activity, according to Katonah ghost detectives Kathy O'Donnell and Karen O'Donnell.

The two sisters, along with Barry Pirro, who specializes in Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) readings, make up a local team called Katonah Paranormal. They offer consultations and site investigations during which they collect intuitive impressions, photos and recordings.

Katonah Paranormal is involved in 50 to 100 cases a year, mostly in the Westchester and Putnam area—though they have traveled to England and Ireland. After an initial investigation, they may offer a cleansing—a way to "rid the surroundings of negative paranormal activity," according to their website.

"It's not really paranormal in my view," explained Kathy O'Donnell. "It's actually just a part of life and most people just don't want to know about it. But when they do, the fear is gone," she said.

Both sisters have studied energy healing and are certified Reiki Masters and Interfaith ministers. Kathy also credits Troy Taylor, a teacher and author in the paranormal investigation field, with bringing a scientific balance to her work.

Katonah Paranormal brought Patch along as they investigated Le Chateau Restaurant in South Salem.

The site was built in 1907 by J.P. Morgan in 1907 and given to his friend, Reverend William S. Rainsford. The location became Le Chateau in 1973 and has become one of Westchester's most well-known landmarks over the years—for the food, picturesqe setting and views and paranormal activity.

"A lot of customers have had sightings and a few of the employees have seen and felt them," said Antonio Loureiro, a waiter at Le Chateau. "Some of the employees are scared to go to their cars by themselves at night."

Watch the video below to check out the investigation.

Download the movie