The Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York responds to the story below:
Issued 0310 March 9, 2004
STATEMENT BY CARL J. FITJE, GRAND MASTER OF MASONS
RE: TRAGIC INCIDENT AT THE MASONIC HALL IN PATCHOGUE, NY
On behalf of all Masons in New York, I extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family of the Brother who lost his life so tragically this evening.
This was not a Masonic Lodge meeting and no formal and approved Masonic ceremonies were scheduled to take place this evening. Firearms play no role in Masonic Lodge meetings or Masonic events of any kind.
We are fully cooperating with all of the appropriate law enforcement officials.
Carl. J Fitje
Grand Master
Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York