A devastating apartment fire in Queens has left four people dead, including a 3-year-old child, and several others injured, in what authorities are calling a deeply disturbing and random act of violence.
The accused, 38-year-old Roman Amatitla of Maspeth, has been charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder and first-degree arson following the March 16 blaze in a three-story residential building in Flushing. If convicted, he could face 25 years to life in prison.
According to prosecutors, Amatitla had no known connection to the victims or the building. Officials say he entered and exited the property multiple times before allegedly setting fire to trash in a stairwell using a lit piece of paper. The fire quickly spread, trapping residents inside.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz described the incident as an “act of mass murder,” emphasizing the randomness of the attack.
In a chilling detail shared during court proceedings, prosecutors alleged that Amatitla remained nearby, drinking beer and watching as residents desperately tried to escape. Some victims were seen jumping from windows to survive.
The victims include a young child and three adults, while several others sustained injuries, including firefighters responding to the scene.
Authorities have not confirmed a clear motive, though prosecutors suggested the suspect acted out of uncontrolled rage.
Amatitla remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court again on April 13 as the investigation continues.
