Authorities launched an investigation in the Town of Plattekill after two people were found dead on Friday night.

The Ulster County Sheriff's Office says a 66-year-old man and a 54-year-old woman were found dead on Milton Turnpike around 11:45 p.m.

In a statement, Jen Metzger, the Ulster County executive, identified the victims as James and Melinda Brugger and said, “Both dedicated their lives to serving and protecting their communities, and their loss is felt deeply in Ulster County and across the region.”

Metzger added that officials are “keeping their family, colleagues, and fellow first responders in our thoughts during this difficult time.” She also noted that the deaths “remain under investigation by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.”

According to the Ulster County EMS Council, James “Jimmy” Brugger was “a major asset” to the first responder community throughout the Hudson Valley, serving in multiple firefighting roles and earning a reputation as someone “everyone knew and loved.”

The council said Melinda “Mindy” Brugger was an EMT and CPR instructor who was “a great friend to many.”

In a statement included in the post, Jeff Ashdown, president of the council, said, “There is always help available. No one should ever go through a tough time alone. If you need someone to listen to you, or maybe just need someone to talk to, reach out.”

Their cause of death was not known as of Sunday morning.