CENTRAL HEIGHTS - Three people were killed this morning when a fire destroyed their house in western Lauderdale County, fire officials said.

Bobby Brewer, 67, and his wife Sandy Brewer, 68, died along with their 36-year-old nephew, Bradley Adams, authorities said.

Their bodies were found in various areas of the house on Lauderdale 81, emergency workers at the scene said. Sheriff's investigator Richard Richey said firefighters believe the fire started in the kitchen area of the two-story, brick-framed house.

The fire was reported just before 3 a.m.

Firefighters from several volunteer departments worked several hours to put out the fire. The fire was so intense that the roof caved in, which made the search for the family more difficult.

The bodies were found about seven hours after the fire was reported.

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