By Brian Zanzonico
Nassau County Fire Marshall Michael Mennella said a fire started against the rear wall of the garage at 42 Roquette Ave., which spread to a rear detached cottage and the two-story main house at just before midnight. Nearby 36 Roquette Ave. sustained minor smoke damage, and 44 Roquette Ave. sustained damage when firefighters broke in to see if anyone was home, but it was unoccupied.
According to neighbors, the fire left a family, including an infant, homeless. Neighbors said they didn't where the family, which includes Dorothy McBride, her son and five-month old grandson, was staying. More than 100 firefighters from Elmont, Franklin Square & Munson, West Hempstead, Valley Stream, Stewart Manor, Floral Park and New Hyde Park fire departments fought the blaze and brought it under control in an hour.
Nassau County's Arson / Bomb Squad did not return calls. Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact the Nassau County Police CrimeStoppers at (800) 244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.
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