Farmingdale 'Zombie Home' Demolished

FARMINGDALE, NY — A long-dilapidated "zombie home" was demolished in Farmingdale, the Town of Oyster Bay announced Thursday.

The vacant residential property, on Lawrence Street, had been a source of concern for residents because of its "deteriorating condition and numerous safety hazards," according to the town.

"Nothing is more important to the Town Board and I than protecting our quality of life," Supervisor Joseph Saladino said in a news release. "The demolition of this hazardous structure was a necessary step to keep neighbors safe. Not only was this property an eyesore, but it was also a threat to the well-being of our community due to its serious building violations and exposed electrical system."

"Alarming" building code violations and dangerous conditions were uncovered both inside and outside the property during a thorough investigation, according to the town. The inspection revealed a "laundry list" of issues, including an incomplete electrical system, exposed wiring, dilapidated structure, moisture damage, uninhabitable interior conditions, and other safety hazards.

Numerous inoperable vehicles, including an RV, were seen on the property. Each vehicle was filled completely with household items, trash and debris, according to the town. The property posed "significant risks to public safety and welfare," prompting immediate action from the town’s Quality of Life Taskforce, the municipality stated.

"The removal of this blighted property is a testament to our commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents," said Councilman Lou Imbroto, chairman of the Town’s Quality of Life Taskforce. "We will continue working tirelessly to identify and address similar issues throughout our town."