Man Accused of Killing Girlfriend and Setting Their Home on Fire While She and 4-Day-Old Baby Were Inside

A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken Buffalo, New York, after a man allegedly strangled his girlfriend before setting their home on fire while she and their 4-day-old baby were trapped inside.

Police say 30-year-old Kidane Haile is accused of killing 29-year-old Kathleen “Katie” Carrig and then deliberately igniting the blaze inside their apartment on Norwood Avenue during the early hours of October 18.

When firefighters arrived, flames had already engulfed much of the lower floor. After battling the blaze, they discovered Carrig and her infant son unconscious inside. Despite desperate rescue efforts, both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigation Reveals Disturbing Details

Investigators believe Haile strangled Carrig following an argument and then used gasoline to set the apartment on fire to destroy evidence. He was found inside the home suffering from smoke inhalation and minor burns.

After receiving medical treatment, he was taken into custody and charged with second-degree murder. Authorities have also indicated that additional charges, including arson and offenses connected to the baby’s death, are likely to follow as the case develops.

Detectives collected multiple pieces of forensic evidence — including accelerant residue and burn patterns consistent with intentional ignition. Preliminary results from the medical examiner confirmed that Carrig’s cause of death was asphyxiation due to strangulation.

The Victims and Their Story

Family members describe Katie Carrig as a warm, caring woman who had recently given birth to her first child — a baby boy she was overjoyed to welcome home. Friends say she had been adjusting to life as a new mother and was optimistic about her future.

“She had just brought her baby home four days ago,” said a family friend. “To think her life ended like this is beyond comprehension.”

The loss of the infant has left the community reeling, as neighbors continue to place flowers and candles outside the charred apartment building.

Community Demands Justice and Change

The incident has reignited public concern over domestic violence and the urgent need for intervention resources. Local advocacy groups stress that this tragedy could have been prevented with greater access to support systems for new mothers and struggling families.

“Domestic violence doesn’t always look obvious,” said one local advocate. “It can escalate quickly, especially under stress. We need to talk more about early warning signs and how to safely seek help.”

City officials have promised enhanced outreach programs for domestic-abuse victims and mental-health support for parents dealing with post-partum challenges.

Legal Proceedings Underway

Haile has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is currently being held without bail. Prosecutors stated they will pursue the case as an intentional act of homicide, arguing that Haile’s actions showed clear premeditation.

If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of 25 years to life in prison. The court has scheduled additional hearings in the coming weeks as investigators finalize reports from the fire and forensics divisions.

A Reminder of Hidden Violence

This case serves as a grim reminder that domestic violence can exist even behind seemingly peaceful homes. It underscores the importance of community awareness, open communication, and early intervention before tragedy strikes.

Authorities are encouraging anyone facing threats or fear within their relationship to reach out for help. Domestic-violence hotlines and crisis centers across New York offer confidential support 24/7 to those in danger.

A young mother, her newborn child, and a home meant to symbolize new beginnings — all destroyed in one horrific act of violence. As Buffalo mourns, the community stands united in seeking justice and promoting awareness, determined that no other family endures such a devastating loss.