There have been reports in the media of a shooting taking place during a ceremony at "South Side Lodge No. 493 in Suffolk County". The tragic event took place in Suffolk County in the State of New York and was not as reported. The Grand Master of the State of New York has issued a letter to all of his Lodges with the correct facts.

a. The tragic event took place not in a Lodge meeting but during a social event in the building in Patchogue, New York, where the Lodge meets.
b. The social club involved is not a Grand Lodge sanctioned Masonic organisation.
c. The Grand Lodge of the State of New York has only one approved ritual which must be used by all Lodges. Firearms do not, and never have, played any role in any Masonic ritual in New York State.

The Grand Lodge is cooperating fully with the investigating authorities. The Grand Master has spoken with the widow and a fund has been set up to assist her and her family.