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Christmas holiday blaze destroys Massapequa home
According to reports, the fire broke out at 129 Exeter Road, about 1:26 a.m. on Tuesday, December 26. Homeowner Kenny Strick, 50, rushed to rescue his wife, Cathy, 44, and his children, Matthew 11, and Megan 9, from the fire. The family was treated for smoke inhalation at New Island Hospital in Bethpage, according to police, and released. "The fire was up through the second floor and into the attic area when we arrived, and there was exten- sive smoke and fire damage," said Massapequa Fire Chief Thomas Kennelly. "We were told everyone was out of the home but conducted two searches and attacked the home to bring down the fire relatively quickly." At the scene were approximately 70 firefighters, between 40 and 50 from Massapequa who were assisted by volunteers from Seaford, Wantagh, and Amityville. North Massapequa stood by to cover the rest of the district in the event another emergency surfaced.
Although the home was completely destroyed, on the following day, Christmas ornaments, a decked out Christmas tree and toys could be made out among the charred remains. The ten-room home was eventually declared unstable by Town officials and its remains were taken down for health and safety. On Thursday, the only thing left was a muddy, bulldozed site and a swing set in the backyard. "We're just glad that they're safe," said neighbor Jan Packlin. "It was just horrible, and to happen around the holidays makes it that much worse." An initial investigation revealed that the cause of the fire was likely a faulty exterior light fixture. Although the blaze was not suspicious, it is still under investigation. No injuries were reported.
The Strick family, who had completely remodeled the 49-year old colonial style house seven years ago according to tax records, were not available. Several readers have called to ask if the family needed any assistance, and a reporter left a message at the listed phone number but it was not returned. A spokesperson for the Red Cross, which had initially reached out to the family, said last week that the family had not recontacted them seeking any assistance. Top photo, firefifghters battle blaze on Exeter Road. At left, all that is left of home are charred remains. The Harbour Green Civic Association is accepting donations for the family.
Checks can be made out to the Association and sent to P.O. Box 57, Massapequa Park NY 11762
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