Man Accused of Killing Girlfriend and Setting Fire That Killed Their Newborn Baby

A New York man has been charged with murdering his girlfriend and setting their apartment on fire while she and their 4-day-old baby were still inside, authorities say.

According to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, 30-year-old Kidane Haile was indicted on second-degree murder charges Thursday, Oct. 23, in connection with the deaths of 29-year-old Kathleen “Katie” Carrig and their newborn son, Noah.

The Buffalo Fire Department responded to the couple’s apartment on Norwood Avenue around 8:35 p.m. on Oct. 18 after reports of a fire. Tragically, Carrig and baby Noah were both pronounced dead at the scene. Haile was hospitalized for smoke inhalation and taken into custody after being released from the hospital on Oct. 22.

Authorities allege Haile strangled Carrig before intentionally starting the blaze. “The Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the manner of death was homicide caused by asphyxia due to strangulation,” prosecutors said in a statement.

District Attorney Michael Keane said investigators believe Haile used gasoline to start the fire. “The allegations are that Mr. Haile murdered Kathleen Carrig by strangulation, and that he had done so prior to intentionally starting the fire,” Keane said during a press conference.

The cause of baby Noah’s death is still under investigation, but officials expect to release findings soon.

“We are saddened by the tragic death of this young mother and her newborn baby,” Keane said. “My thoughts remain with the family of these victims as we continue to seek answers and justice.”

The fire caused roughly $100,000 in damage to the apartment building, according to WIVB.

An obituary described Carrig as a “loving mother” and “loving dog mom” who is survived by her parents, sister, and many close relatives and friends.

Haile, who worked as a financial aid advisor at the University at Buffalo, is being held without bail. If convicted, he faces up to 25 years to life in prison.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. All calls are free, confidential, and available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.