ENDWELL, NY – A 24-year-old man is in custody following a devastating early-morning motel fire in Broome County that left six people dead and multiple families displaced.
Arrest and Charges
New York State Police announced the arrest of Tyler J. Russell, 24, on Monday, June 22. Russell faces six counts of second-degree manslaughter (a class C felony) and one count of fourth-degree arson (a class E felony). Authorities have not yet disclosed what specific evidence led investigators to Russell.
Rapid Spread at Knights Inn
The fire erupted at approximately 6:01 a.m. on Monday at the Knights Inn motel on East Main Street in Endwell.
First responders from the Endwell Fire Department arrived to find heavy black smoke pouring from the front of the building and intense flames engulfing the rear. The fire spread rapidly through the structure, trapping occupants inside.
Six victims lost their lives in the blaze. State police noted that the identities of the deceased are being withheld pending family notifications.
Displacement and Community Response
The multi-agency response included the Broome County Sheriff’s Department, emergency services, and the State Office of Fire Prevention.
Several survivors who lost their homes and belongings are currently receiving emergency assistance from the Red Cross. A temporary shelter has been established at the Vestal United Methodist Church.
