Scores Turn Out to Help Couple Who Lost Home in Fire

In times of trouble, North Fork neighbors come together to help their friends.

Crowds turned out Sunday for a fundraiser and car show held at the Southold American Legion to benefit firefighter Mike Sweeney and his wife Nancy.

Guests checked out the scores of classic cars and tables packed with Chinese auction prizes as Yankee Rebel played to entertain the crowd. In addition, a 50/50 and door prizes were part of the festivities.

All proceeds went directly to help the Sweeneys, who lost their home in a devastating fire in July.

According to Southold Town police, Michael Sweeney, of Bray Avenue in Laurel, reported that his home was on fire at 3:54 a.m. on July 20.

Officials believe the home might have caught fire due to an attic fan. 

The Mattituck Fire Department, along with Jamesport and Cutchogue Fire Departments, responded and knocked down the blaze. The Suffolk County Arson squad also responded to the scene.

Sweeney's wife Nancy was transported by Cutchogue Ambulance to Eastern Long Island Hospital for evaluation.

The event was the second fundraiser in less than 24 hours to help fellow Southold Town residents: On Saturday, over 800 turned out for a fundraiser to help firefighter Frank Locrotondo, who is battling dementia.