BUFFALO, NY – A Buffalo man has been charged with murder after the deaths of his girlfriend and their 4-day-old infant, whose bodies were discovered following a fire at their Buffalo residence last weekend, authorities said.
Police arrested Hidane Haile, 30, accusing him of killing Kathleen “Katie” Carrig, 29. The couple’s newborn son, Noah Carrig, also died in the incident, which remains under investigation, officials said Thursday.
Firefighters responded to reports of a blaze around 8:35 a.m. last Friday at a multi-family home on Norwood Avenue. Upon arrival, emergency responders found the first-floor apartment engulfed in flames. When crews brought the fire under control and entered the unit, they discovered both Carrig and the infant deceased. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Haile was present at the apartment when first responders arrived and was transported to Erie County Medical Center for treatment of smoke inhalation. Officials confirmed he remained hospitalized for several days before being arrested and charged with murder upon release.
The Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Carrig died from asphyxia caused by strangulation, ruling her death a homicide. According to the district attorney, investigators believe Carrig was killed prior to the fire being set, and that Haile intentionally used gasoline to ignite the blaze.
While authorities have not announced charges related to the infant’s death, they confirmed that the circumstances around Noah Carrig’s death are still under review. Additional charges against Haile are anticipated as officials continue to examine the evidence.
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, with leaders offering condolences to the family and pledging a thorough investigation. Acting Buffalo Mayor Christopher Scanlon spoke about his personal connection to the Carrig family, highlighting the loss’s impact on those who knew Katie Carrig.
The case has prompted renewed calls for awareness around intimate partner violence, as well as support services for victims and families coping with loss. Prosecutors said they remain committed to seeking justice for Carrig and her infant son.
Haile is currently being held as the investigation continues. Further details on court proceedings have not yet been released.