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Pearl River Man Killed By Tree; Family Injured

Sandy brings tree through residential home, placing several in hospital.

A tree crashed through a Pearl River home Monday night, at the height of Sandy, killing a man and injuring his family, authorities have told Patch.

The incident occurred on Robin Street at about 6 p.m., according to Rockland Paramedic Services. A tree came through the roof and into a second-floor family room.

The father—a 51-year-old man—is dead, authorities said. His wife and three teenage children are currently being treated at Nyack Hospital.

The victim is Jeffrey Chanin, according to police.

Raymond Florida, director of Rockland Paramedics, said the weather is so bad that ambulances are off the streets—and only hitting the roads if emergency calls come in.

"We're operating off generators now," he said. "We have massive power outages."

Rockland authorities have seen no other cases so far of trees seriously damaging property, or injuring residents, Florida said.

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Andy Stewart, Orangetown Supervisor October 30, 2012 at 03:28 am
This horrific tragedy hopefully will be the worst "Sandy" impact on the people of Orangetown. Our police, fire and highway personnel responded with skill, courage and heart, and all of our prayers are with this family tonight and in the days to come.
vincent ciardullo October 30, 2012 at 01:07 pm
I heard about this late last night.This was a friend I grew up with. I am devastated to know that he has passed away. I am praying for his family. May God Bless them all with health, comfort & peace. :( Please also pray for his family.
Bruce Bannerman October 31, 2012 at 02:08 am
Why do all politicians forget to thank or even mention the EMS personnel who responded. Are you aware that you have ambulances that are staffed by EMTs and fly cars staffed by paramedics? While I applaud everyone that responded, I think it's a disgrace that you as an elected official don't even recognize your dedicated EMS.
Jillian Marie October 31, 2012 at 05:47 am
i concur with bruce. people do not magically arrive at ERs stable...
Chris421 October 31, 2012 at 02:38 pm
Mr. Stewart, I think you may want to re-word your comment. The fact that you refer to a man's death as hopefully being the "worst impact" on the people of Orangetown is insensitive to say the least. And I know from experience, the sudden loss of a husband and father is one of the worst things that a family could experience.
Irene Dominique October 31, 2012 at 05:57 pm
My husband Joe and I had the pleasure to call Jeff & his wife Lise neighbors for 5 years; this is a tragedy. Our hearts go out to all and we pray for their quick recovery and comfort.
Andy Stewart, Orangetown Supervisor October 31, 2012 at 10:48 pm
I agree, the EMTs and volunteer ambulance folks deserve a ton of credit for saving lives. I have had the privilege to see them at work in the Town Emergency Operations Center the last few days and their dedication and professionalism is amazing!
Andy Stewart, Orangetown Supervisor October 31, 2012 at 10:50 pm
Chris421, I think we agree, and if you re-read my comment above, you will agree that we agree! Sorry for your loss. Take care and stay safe.
Rita Sarubbi November 3, 2012 at 06:39 pm
Just when you're frustrated and have enough and want your power back you become less selfish and thank god that you're family is safe through the storm and ask God to help this family that has actually list a human being that was loved and can not be replaced. Prayers go out to the Chanin family
Dzeldaz November 4, 2012 at 04:19 am
Mr. Stewart, I too thought your comment was poorly worded. I held back due to the awfulness of this tragedy. First, my condolences to the family. I cannot imagine their grief. Second, how can loss of human life, "hopefully" be the worst of anything? It is the worst of anything. I am sure your sentiment was such, unfortunately, your words did not convey that thought (no matter how many times they are reread).
Dave H November 4, 2012 at 05:56 pm
My heart goes out to the Chanin family i cannot imagine what they are going through, my prayers are with them.. We should take a look around us and be greatful for what we have, and we should also realize that there are very serious issues in today's world, far more important then how Andy Stewart worded his comment, who the hell cares. Prayers to the family, thats it, no more complaining about a politician who you may not completely agree with
Dzeldaz November 4, 2012 at 06:58 pm
I have no idea who Mr. Stewart is, so I have no political thoughts about him. I do know that one in public office must present their thoughts in a way that truly conveys what is meant. As to who cares - I do. Words are extremely important, and once spoken or written, may not be taken back. Perhaps if more people cared about their words, there would be fewer problems in our world. Your assumption of political involvement as opposed to wanting the true measure of this tragedy conveyed, says much.
There is nothing more precious than life. I wish the Chanin family full recovery and comfort in their memories of Jeffrey Chanin.
Andy Stewart, Orangetown Supervisor November 5, 2012 at 02:52 am
Dzeldaz said it best, "There is nothing more precious than life. I wish the Chanin family full recovery and comfort in their memories of Jeffrey Chanin."
Dzeldaz November 5, 2012 at 06:56 am
Thank you, Mr. Stewart. May we all keep Jeffery Chanin's memory alive.
robert ball November 8, 2012 at 01:25 am
jeff was one of the most caring, hard working people i have had the pleasure of working for. he was a bautiful person. my prayers are with his family.
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