A chilling crime has shaken upstate New York to its core. Kidane Haile, a 30-year-old college financial aid advisor, stands accused of viciously strangling his girlfriend and then deliberately setting their home ablaze with her and their newborn child inside. This despicable act is an affront to every standard of decency we uphold.
On October 18, firefighters responded to a deadly fire at the couple’s apartment on Norwood Avenue. Inside, they discovered the lifeless bodies of 29-year-old Kathleen “Katie” Carrig and their 4-day-old son, Noah. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office made it clear: this was no accident. Haile allegedly took the life of Carrig before orchestrating the inferno that stole both their lives.
Haile narrowly escaped the flames and was rushed to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. He has since been released and was charged with second-degree murder. This man, who should have been nurturing his family, is now facing the prospect of life behind bars.
The Medical Examiner confirmed that Carrig’s death resulted from “homicide caused by asphyxia due to strangulation.” As for baby Noah, the investigation into his tragic death is ongoing, with more charges looming against Haile.
What makes this case even more disturbing is that Haile was employed as a financial aid advisor at the University at Buffalo. While the university maintains that it has a robust disciplinary process for dealing with criminal behavior, it raises serious questions about the vetting of its staff.
In court, Haile was ordered held without bail, a necessary step given the heinous nature of the charges against him. Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Carrig and Noah, vowing to pursue justice relentlessly.
Facing a potential sentence of 25 years to life if convicted, Haile’s future hangs in the balance. The community grieves the loss of a young mother known as a loving caregiver, leaving behind family and friends who will forever seek answers.
This case should serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked violence. We’re all responsible for ensuring that justice prevails for the victims of such monstrous acts.
