Hempstead Town Councilman Christopher Carini Dies Unexpectedly

SEAFORD, NY — Town of Hempstead Councilman Christopher Carini has died. He was 49.

Town Supervisor Don Clavin announced the news Monday morning on X.

"It is with an immense and deep sadness that today I share news of the tragic passing of our friend, Hempstead Town Councilman Chris Carini. Councilman Carini was a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the communities he represented was unwavering," Clavin said.

Carini had a two-decade career in law enforcement, working as a police officer in the NYPD, the MTA and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

He was elected to the Town Council's 5th District in 2019.

Congressman Anthony D'Esposito (R-Island Park) said he's "heartbroken" over Carini's death.

"Chris was a tireless advocate at Hempstead Town, fierce campaigner, unwavering supporter of law enforcement, loving friend, dedicated husband and great dad. This hurts and I’ll miss my friend," D'Esposito wrote on X.

County Executive Bruce Blakeman held a moment of silence for Carini, his friend and former colleague.

"I awoke this morning to some very, very sad news," Blakeman said at a Monday news conference. "We are very, very upset about it."

Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé (D–Freeport) called Carini's death a "tremendous loss."

"Chris distinguished himself as a passionate and tireless community leader. Most importantly, he was a dedicated and loving father to his children," Mulé said.

“When I met Chris on the campaign trail last summer and began working with him to serve our mutual constituents, we bonded over a shared passion for travel youth baseball," Legislator Seth Koslow (D-Merrick) said. "Whenever we had an opportunity, we discussed our boys and their potential – and I will always cherish those conversations and memories.

As his bio states, Carini was active in the community, even before moving into politics. He held roles that included Vice President of the Wantagh-Seaford Homeowners' Association and Director of the Wantagh-Seaford Homeowners' Neighborhood Watch Committee.

No other details were available at this time.

Carini is survived by his wife Danielle and two children.

"The Town of Hempstead and its residents have suffered a great loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time," Clavin said.

This is a developing story. Refresh for updates.