U.S. Rep. Turner’s home destroyed in Breezy Point fire

October 31, 2012 By Paula Katinas Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Share this:

The devastating fire that destroyed more than 100 homes in Breezy Point, Queens during the height of Hurricane Sandy also took houses belonging to two prominent political figures.

U.S. Rep. Bob Turner (R-Brooklyn-Queens) and New York State Conservative Party Chairman Mike Long both lost homes in the blaze, Crain’s New York Business reported on Oct. 30.

The Breezy Point fire caused 110 houses to burn to the ground, officials said.

Long, a Bay Ridge resident, has had a summer house at Breezy Point for decades, according to the Crain’s report.

The Breezy Point house was Turner’s primary residence, it was reported.

On the day after the fire, Turner issued a statement expressing concern for hurricane victims.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all of my fellow New Yorkers and the many others who are experiencing loss as a result of Hurricane Sandy. Times like these create tremendous obstacles. However, by working together we will ensure that the power is restored and our neighborhoods are rebuilt. I will be working with FEMA and other officials in the coming days to ensure that residents have access to the assistance they need,” Turner said.

“I, along with many other Breezy Point residents, lost our homes last night and I am grateful that my family and I are safe after this destructive storm. I hope you will join me in lending a hand to those who were less fortunate and keep everyone impacted by this storm in your thoughts and prayers,” Turner stated.

Long could not be reached for comment.

He confirmed to Crain’s New York Business that his house had indeed been destroyed by the devastating blaze and stated that he was grateful his family was not in the home when the fire took place.

Relief efforts are underway in various parts of the city to assist Breezy Point homeowners cope with the loss of their homes.

Jason McDermott and James Whiffin, the owners of the Pour House, a pub on Third Avenue in Bay Ridge, held a disaster relief event at their bar on the night of Oct. 30. Scores of people attended the event and brought food, clothing and other supplies the Breezy Point homeowners might need.