NYPD Searches Suspect in Queens Arson Murder of Elderly Couple

Authorities in Queens are searching for a man suspected of setting fire to a home in Bellerose, resulting in the deaths of a 77-year-old man and a 78-year-old woman. The couple, who had lived in the home for over 40 years, were found dead inside after the fire was extinguished, with the man discovered tied up in the basement, leading police to classify the deaths as homicides. The suspect, described as a man in his 30s or 40s with a medium build, was last seen wearing a black hat, black jacket, blue jeans, and black sneakers. Neighbors described the couple as friendly and long-time residents, expressing shock and sadness over the incident. Investigators are still determining the exact cause of death and seeking public assistance to identify and locate the arsonist. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers to aid the ongoing investigation.