University Employee Charged in Homicide of Girlfriend and Newborn

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Kidane Haile, a 30-year-old financial aid advisor at the University at Buffalo, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder after a tragic fire led to the discovery of his girlfriend and their newborn son dead in their apartment.

Haile was arraigned Thursday in Erie County Court following an indictment. Investigators reported that Buffalo Fire Department responded to a fire in a first-floor apartment on Norwood Avenue on Oct. 18. Firefighters found Kathleen “Katie” Carrig, 29, and her infant son, Noah Carrig, who was just four days old. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

According to Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane, Haile allegedly strangled Carrig and then set fire to their home using gasoline. The cause of death for baby Noah is still under investigation.

Haile suffered smoke inhalation and was treated at ECMC before being taken into custody. In court, he pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors indicated they intend to file additional charges soon.

The University at Buffalo expressed its condolences in a statement. They acknowledged the serious allegations against Haile and confirmed that they have a disciplinary process for dealing with employee criminal activity. The university will also offer counseling through its Employee Assistance Program for those affected by the incident.

Haile remains in custody at the Erie County Holding Center without bail.