A tragic case unfolded in Buffalo, New York, where a man allegedly strangled his girlfriend and set their home ablaze while she and their four-day-old baby were inside.
Kidane Haile, 30, has been indicted and arraigned for second-degree murder in Erie County. Authorities say he allegedly killed Kathleen Carrig, 29, and their newborn son, Noah, at their apartment on October 18.
The Buffalo Fire Department responded to a fire call at around 8:35 a.m. Upon arrival, both mother and baby were pronounced dead at the scene. Haile was hospitalized for smoke inhalation before being released and taken into police custody.
District Attorney Mike Keane said, “The allegations are that Mr. Haile murdered Kathleen Carrig by strangulation before intentionally starting the fire with gasoline. The cause of death for baby Noah remains under investigation, but we expect to report it soon.” The Erie County Medical Examiner confirmed Ms. Carrig’s death as a homicide by asphyxia due to strangulation.
Haile, formerly a financial aid advisor at the University at Buffalo, faces a maximum sentence of 25 years if convicted. The university issued a statement expressing condolences while noting it has procedures in place to address employees involved in criminal activity.
The fire caused roughly $100,000 (around RM470,000) in damage to the apartment and its contents. Buffalo Fire Commissioner William Renaldo said the incident had a profound impact on the firefighters, especially given the involvement of an infant, and that support was provided to the crew.
Acting Buffalo Mayor Christopher Scanlon noted that while he did not know Ms. Carrig personally, both families were acquainted. Authorities continue to investigate the case as the community mourns this devastating loss.
