AURORA, Colo. — A suspect has been arrested in connection with an apartment fire that killed a 5-year-old boy early Monday morning, the Aurora Police Department(APD) said.
The fire happened around 1:30 a.m. at a three-story apartment building at 15320 East Evans Avenue, which is near East Iliff Avenue and South Chambers Road, Aurora Fire Rescue (AFR) said. The fire was under control around 2:34 a.m. on Monday.
Fire crews rescued multiple people from the building as the fire burned, according to AFR. Crews searched the three floors for potential victims and were able to evacuate nine patients, according to AFR. AFR said six of the patients refused care and the other three were taken to the hospital.
One of the patients was a 5-year-old boy, identified as Abner Salmeron-Bautista by the Arapahoe County Coroner's Office.
Salmeron-Bautista died from his injuries, according to fire crews. AFR has not released the conditions of the other patients.
Police said Monday evening that Alondra Michel, 37, has been arrested in connection with the fire. She is charged with murder, arson and three counts of attempted murder. Police said more charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Police said their investigation indicates Michel was involved in a domestic violence incident with a resident on the main level of the apartment building. They believe she intentionally set something inside the apartment on fire. The fire then spread to adjacent units, including the second-story apartment where the boy was found.
The Arapahoe County Coroner’s Office will determine the cause of the boy's death and release his name once next of kin is notified.
Anyone who has information about this case is asked to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867.
The Red Cross of Colorado and Xcel Energy also went to the scene of the fire to assist the victims. The Red Cross is working with the property manager to shelter the displaced residents, AFR said.
At least 31 residents have been displaced due to the fire, according to AFR.
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