New York Republican Rep. Robert Turner’s Breezy Point, NY, home was one of approximately 80 homes destroyed by flooding and fires during Hurricane Sandy, the Wall Street Journal reports.
The home was Turner’s primary residence. Both the congressman and his wife made it out of the house safely, according to Crain’s New York.
In a statement sent via email to The Daily Caller, Turner thanked the first responders and commended their bravery. He said that he will be working with officials to help the recovery effort and make sure residents get any assistance they need.
“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,” Turner added. “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 won a special election to represent the district New York Democratic Rep. Anthony Weiner vacated in 2011. After his congressional district was divided up by redistricting earlier this year, the congressman made an unsuccessful primary bid for the U.S. Senate, finishing second among three Republican contenders for the nomination.
New York Conservative Party chairman Michael Long’s nearby house was also destroyed, according to Crain’s, although Long was not at home when it happened.
“The houses aren’t even burnt,” Long’s son told Crain’s while visiting the area. “They’re completely gone.”