Child's Death Determined Homicide
5-year-old Malakai Stovall has sadly passed away from severe injuries sustained in a house fire on Portland Avenue.
Captain Frank Umbrino confirmed the news, stating that Malakai succumbed to his injuries on August 1 while receiving medical treatment at Strong Memorial Hospital.
According to the police, the young boy had been placed on a ventilator due to the extent of his burns, which covered over 75% of his body. The fire, which was allegedly intentionally set just outside the front door of the boy's home, was the cause of his injuries.
During the incident, reports noted Malakai's parents were out of town, leaving him under the care of a 19-year-old babysitter. The babysitter suffered from smoke inhalation, and two Rochester firefighters sustained injuries while battling the blaze. They are currently recovering from their injuries.
The duplex where the fire occurred was destroyed, according to Captain Umbrino.
On Tuesday, RPD confirmed that the fire was an act of arson, deliberately set by more than one person. Authorities stated no charges have been filed about the fire. However, the incident is now being treated as a homicide.
Captain Umbrino urged residents in the 1200 Portland Ave. area to review their video surveillance footage for any suspicious activity around the time of the fire. This request is part of the ongoing investigation to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for this tragic incident police confirmed.
A reward of $5,000 has been offered for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for starting the fire.
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