Police arrested 37-year-old Queens resident Roman Amatitla on Wednesday, after flames tore through a mixed-use building on College Point Boulevard in Flushing on March 16.
Arrest made in Queens fire that killed 4 people, including 3-year-old girlThursday, April 9, 2026 2:00AMfire in Queens that killed four peoplePolice arrested 37-year-old Queens resident Roman Amatitla on Wednesday, after flames tore through a mixed-use building on College Point Boulevard between Avery and Pope avenues in Flushing on March 16.
A 3-year-old girl, 51-year-old man, 61-year-old man and 62-year-old woman were killed. More than a dozen others, including six firefighters were injured.Amatitla was arrested at his home several miles away after a joint investigation involving police and fire marshals. He said nothing and ignored questions as he was brought out of the 109thprecinct station. Sources told Eyewitness News that Amatitla deliberately set fire to a piece of paper and a piece of wood in the vestibule.The building had a history of complaints about illegal subdivisions and conversions, and squatting. The apartments inside were cluttered. Neighbors had no idea just how deadly those conditions turned out to be for those who couldn't safely escape.They also didn't know it was being investigated as a case of arson, but were surprised and relieved to hear someone was arrested.Amatitla has been been charged with multiple counts of murder, assault, arson and petit larceny. Sources say the petit larceny charges are for stealing beer, but it's unclear who he stole it from.He's expected to make a court appearance either Wednesday night or Thursday morning.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Seattle Police Arrest Ohio Fugitive Wanted on Murder and Trafficking ChargesSeattle police and SWAT officers arrested an Ohio fugitive wanted on murder, assault, and trafficking charges. The arrest, stemming from a nationwide warrant issued by the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office, involved the Gun Violence Reduction Unit and SWAT team, ensuring a safe apprehension without incident. The suspect is expected to be extradited back to Ohio.
Read more »
Evergreen Police Arrest Two on Drug Charges, Seize Narcotics and FirearmJoe Nathan Rankins and Candace Patrice Crosby were arrested in Evergreen, Alabama, following a narcotics investigation. Rankins faces multiple drug-related charges including trafficking cocaine and possession of various controlled substances, while Crosby is charged with chemical endangerment of a child. Police seized significant quantities of drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a handgun during the operation.
Read more »
State senator sues Sacramento, accuses police of fabricating evidence in 'retaliatory' DUI arrestA California state senator has sued the city of Sacramento alleging that police officers fabricated evidence to falsely accuse her of driving under the influence.
Read more »
South San Francisco police arrest man suspected of shooting into apartment buildingA Bay Point man was arrested on suspicion of shooting into an apartment building while 10 people were home, including a child. Police said no one was injured.
Read more »
California lawmaker sues Sacramento police over false DUI arrestToday's Video Headlines: 04/07/26
Read more »
Grove City police chief explains arrest of congressional candidate at No Kings rallyGrove City’s police chief is addressing the arrest of a congressional candidate at a recent “No Kings” rally, saying his own guidance to officers that day may h
Read more »