Bridgeport - Two firefighters have died in the line of duty while battling an afternoon house fire in Bridgeport Saturday. At least three other firefighters were treated and released. A solemn Mayor Bill Finch spoke at a news conference Saturday night.

Governor Rell's Statement on Deaths of Bridgeport Firefighters

Governor M. Jodi Rell today has directed that U.S. and Connecticut flags be lowered to half-staff in honor of Bridgeport firefighters, Lt. Steven Velazquez and Michel Baik, who died Saturday in the line of duty. Flags will remain lowered until sundown on the day of their funerals, which have not yet been set.

The Governor, who spoke with Mayor Finch last night to offer support and condolences, issued following statement:

"The deaths of Lt. Steven Velazquez and Firefighter Michel Baik are heartbreaking reminders of the dangers our brave first responders face every day when they answer a call for help. My thoughts and prayers go out to their families and to their fellow firefighters."