Man Accused of Random NYC Arson That Killed 4, Including Child, Arrested
- Suspect arrested for setting deadly apartment fire in Queens
- Blaze killed four people, including a 3-year-old girl
- Fire allegedly set using accelerant inside building
- More than 70 FDNY units responded to the inferno
- Suspect faces multiple charges including murder and arson
QUEENS, NEW YORK — A man has been taken into custody in connection with a deadly apartment fire in Queens that claimed four lives and left several others injured in a tragedy that has stunned the city.
Authorities say Roman Amatitla, 38, was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service in connection with the March 16 blaze at a residential building in Flushing.
Deadly Fire Leaves Four Dead
The fire tore through a three-story apartment building, killing four residents, including 3-year-old Sihan Yang and 50-year-old Chengri Cui. Two additional victims, ages 61 and 63, have not yet been publicly identified.
Officials say several others were injured as flames quickly spread throughout the building.
Witnesses described a chaotic and terrifying scene, with residents scrambling to escape as thick smoke and fire engulfed the structure.
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Fire Allegedly Set Intentionally
Investigators believe the suspect entered the building despite having no known connection to any residents.
According to authorities, he allegedly set a piece of wood on fire and used an accelerant, causing the flames to spread rapidly.
The fire grew so intense that it took more than two hours and dozens of firefighters to bring it under control.
Massive Emergency Response
The FDNY deployed 74 units to battle the blaze, highlighting the scale and severity of the incident.
Residents in the area watched in horror as emergency crews worked to contain the flames and rescue those trapped inside.
Suspect Faces Multiple Charges
Police say the suspect is now facing a long list of serious charges, including:
- Eight counts of murder
- Twelve counts of assault
- Eight counts of arson
- Four counts of petit larceny
Authorities also noted that the suspect had no prior arrest record.
Troubled Building History Raises Questions
Records show the building had a history of violations, with nearly 60 complaints over the past three decades.
At the time of the fire, 16 violations remained open, many linked to:
- Illegal apartment conversions
- Overcrowded living conditions
Officials say one prior inspection found the building had been converted into multiple small units with additional beds beyond legal limits.
Community in Shock
Neighbors described the fire as one of the worst they had ever seen, with some fearing the worst as victims were carried out by emergency crews.
The tragic loss of life—especially that of a young child—has left the community grieving and searching for answers.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the fire and whether it was truly a random act.
As the case moves forward, officials are focusing on accountability and ensuring justice for the victims and their families.
Do you think stricter safety inspections could prevent tragedies like this? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
