An Endwell man has been arrested in connection with the fatal fire at the Knights Inn on Main Street in Endwell.
According to the New York State Police, 24-year-old Tyler Russell has been charged with six counts of manslaughter in the second degree, a Class C felony, and one count of arson in the fourth degree, a Class E felony.
Russell was remanded to the Broome County Jail.
The fire was reported at approximately 6:01 a.m. on Monday.
The incident remains an active scene and is under investigation. At least six fatalities have been confirmed. At least two people were transported to Wilson Medical Center.
The names of the victims has not been released at this time.
Numerous residents have been displaced and are being assisted by the Red Cross. A temporary shelter has been set up at the Vestal United Methodist Church.
Shortly after 6 a.m., Members of the Endwell Fire Department arrived to find heavy black smoke in the front of the building and flames showing from the rear of the building. The fire spread rapidly.
Multiple Fire Departments, ambulance crews and police agencies arrived on scene to assist.
The New York State Office of Fire, the Broome County Office of Emergency Services, Broome County Mobile Crisis Response Team is on scene.
The Broome County Sheriff’s Department, the Broome County Executive are assisting on scene.
The Fire Departments responding:
• Endwell Fire Department
• Endicott Fire Department
• West Endicott Fire Department
• Union Center Fire Department
• West Corners Fire Department
• Johnson City Fire Department
• Vestal Fire Department
• Five Mile Point Fire Department
• Prospect Terrace Fire Department
• Binghamton Fire Department
• Office of Emergency Services
The Ambulance Companies responding:
• Superior Ambulance
• Union Ambulance
• Broome Ambulance
• Maine Ambulance
The Red Cross is accepting donations of clothing and hygiene products. No food will be accepted. Donations can be dropped off at the Vestal United Methodist Church located at 328 Main Street.
