Queens, NY – A 77-year-old man and a 78-year-old woman were killed Monday afternoon when their home in Queens was deliberately set on fire, police said. Detectives are now asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect.
Authorities said the victims were inside 87-86 254th Street at around 3:21 p.m. when an unidentified man entered the residence and ignited the blaze. FDNY crews rushed to the scene, extinguished the fire, and discovered the two victims. EMS pronounced them dead at the location.
Investigators have released a description of the individual sought in connection with the double homicide. He is described as a man with a dark complexion, approximately 30 to 40 years old, medium build, last seen wearing a black hat, a black jacket, blue jeans, and black sneakers.
The NYPD is urging anyone with information to call the department’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted through the NYPD website or via the Crime Stoppers app. All calls are confidential.
Key Points
- A 77-year-old man and a 78-year-old woman were killed in a fire deliberately set inside their Queens home.
- Police say the suspect entered the residence on 254th Street and ignited the blaze before fleeing.
- Detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the man, described as 30–40 years old, medium build, wearing dark clothing.
The deadly blaze has left a quiet Queens neighborhood reeling as police search for the suspect.