MASSAPEQUA, N.Y. - Fire officials say a couple was killed in an early morning house fire on Long Island.


Nassau County fire officials identified them as the sister and brother-in-law of the homeowner. They both lived in a garage apartment attached to the Massapequa house.

Newsday says the 56-year-old owner suffered second-degree burns to his face, arms and hands trying to rescue the couple, both in their 50s.

A family friend who was visiting from Florida was not injured.

Two firefighters suffered minor injuries.

The fire at the 2-story house was called in at 4:06 a.m. and brought under control an hour later.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Fire Marshals supervisor Vincent McManus told Newsday that the home's two smoke detectors were not working.

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Information from: Newsday, http://www.newsday.com

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