Police said Thomas was inside the Ocean Crest Boulevard home when officers responded to reports of gunfire. Investigators allege he killed Clemer Ponce, 56, and her daughter, Selena Ponce, 28, before a fire broke out inside the residence. Thomas later emerged from the burning home carrying a shotgun and wearing a tactical vest, according to police, and officers shot him after he allegedly refused commands to drop the weapon. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Thomas has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder, along with attempted murder, arson, criminal possession of a weapon and aggravated cruelty to animals, authorities said. A dog and cat also died in the fire, while Thomas' wife, who called 911 before officers arrived, was not injured. The case remains under investigation as prosecutors pursue the charges against Thomas.