A male suspect has been charged with strangling his partner and igniting their residence with his girlfriend and their newborn child still inside. Kidane Haile, aged 30, was formally accused of second-degree murder in connection with the deaths of Kathleen “Katie” Carrig, 29, and their infant son, Noah. The tragic incident occurred at 8:35 AM on October 18 when firefighters were called to extinguish a fire at the couple’s apartment.

Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered Katie and Noah unconscious in the house. Regrettably, both the mother and child were declared deceased at the scene. Prosecutors alleged that Haile strangled Katie before setting the house on fire. He was rescued from the burning building and taken to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation over several days.

After being discharged, Haile, who was employed as a financial aid advisor at the University at Buffalo, was charged with second-degree murder and held without bail following his arraignment. The Medical Examiner determined that Katie’s death was due to asphyxia resulting from strangulation, while the cause of Noah’s death is still being investigated, with additional charges expected.

Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane expressed sorrow over the tragic loss of the young mother and her newborn. Keane emphasized the ongoing investigation and the indictment against the accused for intentionally causing the death of his girlfriend before the fire. He assured that further charges would be brought as the case progresses.

During a press briefing, Keane stated that Haile deliberately started the fire subsequent to strangling Katie, using gasoline as an accelerant. Investigations into Noah’s cause of death are ongoing, with updates expected soon. An obituary for Katie described her as a devoted mother survived by her family and loving dog, with a network of supportive relatives and friends.

If convicted, Haile could face a sentence of 25 years to life in prison, according to the District Attorney’s office.