EAST HAMPTON, NY — Famed "builder to the stars" Ben Krupinski was killed when his plane, carrying four, crashed off Amagansett in thunderstorms Saturday afternoon, sources said.

Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman confirmed that Krupinski died in the tragic crash. "I'm devastated," Schneiderman said. "This is a devastating loss for the East End." Schneiderman said he has been friends with the Krupinskis for more than 20 years. "I'm speechless," he said. "They were so incredibly generous."

The supervisor said he could not confirm if Krupinski's wife Bonnie had been killed in the crash, or who else was aboard the plane. Krupinski was well-known for his beautiful work as a builder for high-profile celebrities, including Billy Joel and Jerry Della Femina.

Ben Krupinski And his legacy of philanthropy is deeply rooted on the East End: In May 2017, Ben and Bonnie Krupinski were honored as East Hampton Lions Club Citizens of the Year for their generosity to the East End community.

Two bodies were recovered after a small plane carrying four people crashed into the water off Amagansett Saturday afternoon, police said; the search is ongoing for the other two missing.



As word spread of Krupinski's death, friends were rocked by the news. "I am devastated," said longtime friend and former East Hampton Town board member Diana Weir. "They are an integral part of the East Hampton community — one of the most distinguished local families. I am crushed. They were very good to me and all local charities."

The Krupinskis, she said, are an "amazing family. Generous benefactors to so many local charities in their hometown. An East Hampton local successful family whose heart and soul cared about their hometown."

Remembering Krupinski, she said his death is "a tremendous loss for East Hampton. They never wanted credit or publicity for their amazing generosity. When a local prom lost their venue, Ben picked up the tab and made that prom happen. There are too many stories about things he did like that, without any press." His wife Bonnie has spent a lifetime dedicated to giving back to her town with her "tremendous business acumen serving on various boards. I am heartbroken," Weir said.

