New details have emerged from a fatal and suspicious weekend fire in Binghamton. An arrest has been made. Police say they took 45-year-old Wilfredo Pica-Torres into custody. He has been charged with murder, burglary and two counts of arson. Police said that the suspect entered an apartment on Walnut Street, beat two people and set the fire. Dead is 61-year-old Victor Banayan (Ba-NAY-an). A 27-year-old woman from the apartment escaped. Other occupants from the building including, adults and children, also escaped the burning apartment house. The woman sustained fractures and other injuries. Detectives tracked the suspect to a vacant nearby apartment. He allegedly torched that building as well, but occupants of the building safely escaped. SWAT was engaged. The suspect was injured but placed in custody. He’s in jail now. Police said Pica-Torres and the unnamed female victim has a past domestic / romantic relationship.
Loading advertisement…
Latest Local News
Terry Parker found guilty of 2024 murder in Bradford County
A Bradford County jury returned a guilty verdict in... Read More.
Towanda’s Sexton honored for becoming Pennsylvania’s all-time wrestling wins leader
Longtime Towanda wrestling coach Bill Sexton was honored last... Read More.
Candor Daffodil set for this weekend
The 2026 Candor Daffodil Festival is set for this... Read More.
Tioga County taking part in DEA Drug Take Back Day
Tioga County will participate in the DEA’s National Prescription... Read More.
Previous
Next













