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A family dispute turned into a devastating tragedy Saturday afternoon in Far Rockaway, Queens, leaving two women dead, a home destroyed by fire, and an armed suspect critically injured after an encounter with New York City police.

According to the New York Police Department, officers responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire at a home on Ocean Crest Boulevard near Hartman Lane shortly before noon on Saturday, July 25.

When officers arrived, they found the residence engulfed in flames. Police say they were confronted outside the burning home by a man wearing a bulletproof vest and armed with a shotgun. Officers repeatedly ordered him to drop the weapon, but when he refused, they opened fire, striking him. He was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition.

After firefighters extinguished the blaze, officers entered the home and discovered two women dead from apparent gunshot wounds. Multiple media reports identify the victims as the suspect's mother-in-law and sister-in-law, although the NYPD has not yet officially released their identities pending family notification.

Investigators are now working to determine what led to the deadly violence and whether the fire was intentionally set. Fire marshals and homicide detectives remained at the scene throughout the day as they gathered evidence.

The identities of the suspect and victims have not yet been officially released, and authorities have not announced any known motive.

This remains a developing story, and more information is expected as the investigation continues.