A tragic murder case has shaken the University at Buffalo community. Kidane Haile, a 30-year-old financial adviser, stands charged with the second-degree murder of his girlfriend, Kathleen “Katie” Carrig, and the death of their newborn son, Noah. This grim incident reportedly began on October 18, 2025, when firefighters responded to an apartment fire on Norwood Avenue.
According to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, the aftermath revealed two victims: Carrig, 29, and her 4-day-old son. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The medical examiner’s preliminary findings indicated that Carrig’s death was a homicide caused by asphyxia through strangulation. The cause of Noah’s death remains under investigation.
The events leading to the fire present a disturbing narrative. Haile is accused of intentionally ending the life of his girlfriend ahead of the blaze. After the incident, he was hospitalized for smoke inhalation, underscoring the chaos of the scene. “We are saddened by the tragic death of this young mother and her newborn baby,” stated District Attorney Mike Keane. His comments reflect the gravity of the situation, highlighting the profound loss faced by the victims’ families.
The University at Buffalo has responded to this heartbreaking incident by offering counseling services to students and faculty affected by the tragedy. They are addressing the situation with care while maintaining an appropriate distance from details about Haile’s personnel status. A school statement mentioned that criminal activity involving an employee is dealt with through a robust disciplinary process; however, the university cannot comment on specific personnel matters at this time.
This case raises significant concerns about domestic violence, a reality that many victims face in silence. The District Attorney’s office suggests that they are committed to a thorough examination of the evidence and might pursue additional charges. Haile has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is being held without bail. If convicted, he faces a daunting sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
As the investigation unfolds, the community must grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, the loss of two lives, and the implications of such violence. The emotional scars left behind will linger long after legal proceedings conclude. This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious issues surrounding domestic violence and the devastating impact it can have on families and communities.
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