Rafiqul Islam, a resident of Bedford-Stuyvesant, appeared in court and was formally charged with a 59-count indictment. He was ordered to be detained without bond pending the outcome of his trial. If convicted of the most serious offense, first-degree attempted murder, he could face a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. In addition to this charge, he also faces charges of attempted assault and multiple counts of endangering the welfare of others.

Occupied Rental Home

On that fateful September morning, a tenant residing on the second floor detected the scent of fire emanating from the vicinity of their apartment. Concerned about the situation, they ventured out to investigate, only to find that the sole means of entry or exit from the building was through the internal staircase. Unfortunately, the stairs were engulfed in smoke and flames.

The Family Was Rescued

The whole family, consisting of six children ranging in age from one to eight, had no choice but to escape through a back window and onto the roof as the fire rapidly spread. Luckily, two adults were able to safely lower the children down to waiting neighbors, who caught them in their arms, approximately 20 feet below. After ensuring the children’s safety, the two adults courageously jumped from the roof to the ground. One of them immediately dialed 911 for help.

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