Queens man accused of deadly Flushing fire now facing first degree murder charges after 4 killed
QUEENS, NY — A Maspeth man accused of setting a devastating fire inside a Flushing apartment building that killed four people — including a 3-year-old girl — is now facing upgraded first-degree murder charges that could send him to prison for life without parole.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that 38-year-old Roman Amatitla was indicted on multiple upgraded charges tied to the March fire at 132-05 Avery Avenue.
Prosecutors allege Amatitla intentionally set the blaze and then remained nearby watching the building burn as residents desperately tried to escape.
The indictment includes four counts of first-degree murder, 12 counts of second-degree murder, multiple arson charges, assault charges and petit larceny.
According to investigators, surveillance footage and evidence showed Amatitla entering and leaving the three-story building multiple times on March 16 before crossing the street to a nearby gas station.
There, prosecutors said, he purchased a beer, stole another beer and took a pack of matches after asking for a lighter.
Authorities allege Amatitla returned to the building around 12:16 p.m., lit paper on fire and placed it on top of garbage at the base of the building’s only stairwell exit.
Smoke quickly filled the building, trapping residents inside.
Investigators said Amatitla stayed in the area drinking beer while watching flames consume the structure before later walking to a nearby bodega.
Four people died in the fire.
Three-year-old Sihan Yang, 49-year-old Chengri Cui and 61-year-old Chie Shin Ming were found dead inside the building from smoke inhalation, prosecutors said.
Another victim, 64-year-old Hong Zhao, suffered severe injuries after jumping from a window to escape the blaze. He later died at a hospital.
The fire also injured multiple residents and two FDNY members.
Officials said a firefighter and lieutenant fell into the basement when part of the building collapsed during rescue efforts. Both suffered smoke inhalation and burn injuries.
Several residents were injured after jumping from windows to escape the flames, while another occupant was rescued from a second-floor window.
Queens Supreme Court Justice Michael Yavinsky ordered Amatitla held without release and scheduled his next court appearance for July 14.
If convicted on the top charge, Amatitla faces life in prison without the possibility of parole.
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Key Points
• Queens man indicted on upgraded first-degree murder charges in deadly fire
• Four people, including a 3-year-old girl, died in Flushing blaze
• Prosecutors say suspect watched building burn after setting fire