Buffalo man charged with killing girlfriend and newborn son dies in jail.

An individual in upstate New York, identified as 30-year-old Kidane Haile, was found deceased in his jail cell while awaiting trial for the alleged murder of his girlfriend and their newborn son. This tragic event unfolded at the Erie County Correctional Facility in Alden, with officials reporting that Haile was found unresponsive in the showers late Wednesday evening. Despite immediate life-saving efforts from correctional staff, he was pronounced dead at approximately 9:34 p.m. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding what is being treated as an apparent suicide.

Haile faced serious charges relating to the deaths of 29-year-old Kathleen “Katie” Carrig and their four-day-old son, Noah. According to Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane, Haile is accused of intentionally causing the deaths of both victims in their Buffalo apartment, an incident that occurred on October 18. Following the early morning fire that engulfed their residence, the Buffalo Fire Department discovered the deceased bodies of Carrig and her infant son. Both were pronounced dead at the scene, while Haile was hospitalized for several days due to smoke inhalation.

A further forensic investigation conducted by the Erie County medical examiner concluded that Carrig died from homicide via asphyxia from strangulation. The infant suffered fatal injuries classified as asphyxiation and/or thermal injuries. Following these findings, Haile was indicted on charges of murder and arson on October 30, 2023, and was being held without bail.

In response to his untimely death, Haile’s defense attorney, Dan Dubois, indicated that his client was a dedicated family member who may have been grappling with severe, undiagnosed mental health issues. Dubois emphasized the pressing need for mental health awareness, suggesting that such challenges can afflict anyone, irrespective of their life circumstances.

Haile was due to appear in court on January 21, 2024. The district attorney’s office has indicated that it will petition to dismiss the charges against him following the receipt of his death certificate. This case highlights the ongoing concerns regarding mental health in the criminal justice system and the broader societal implications surrounding such tragedies.