Queens man arraigned in fire that killed four, DA says

A Queens man was arraigned on charges including second-degree murder after prosecutors said he intentionally set a March 16 apartment fire that killed four people, including a child. Undetermined at this time.

A Queens man was arraigned this week on multiple charges after prosecutors said he set a March 16 apartment fire that killed four people, including a child. The district attorney described the case as extremely serious. The defendant faces second-degree murder, arson, assault and petit larceny counts. The deaths were ruled homicides by the medical examiner. Known details: - Roman Amatitla, 38, was arraigned and is charged with second-degree murder, arson, assault and petit larceny. - Prosecutors allege he set a fire inside the building on March 16 and "intentionally let it burn," resulting in four deaths, including a 3-year-old child, and the medical examiner ruled the deaths homicides. - Prosecutors cite surveillance footage and a criminal complaint that says he left the building, obtained matches, returned and ignited a piece of paper in a stairwell. - The defense said the defendant is presumed innocent and intends to vigorously defend him, according to his attorney. Summary: The district attorney characterized the case as among the most serious crimes seen in the borough, and prosecutors allege deliberate arson that led to multiple fatalities. Undetermined at this time.