Man accused of attempting to set baby on fire, another child found hurt, sheriff says
SENECA COUNTY, N.Y. (WHAM) — A New York man has been charged after attempting to set a 1-year-old baby on fire and injuring a 4-year-old, police said.
Members of the Seneca County Sheriff's Office held a press conference Wednesday to announce the charges in the case.
Deputies responded to a gas station in Tyre early Tuesday morning to reports of several fires inside the building. Upon arrival, they found two suspects that allegedly started a fire. The two were detained immediately, and deputies found they were in the company of a 1-year-old who was covered in flammable liquid.
While authorities were investigating the first scene, a 4-year-old abandoned child was found in the cab of a tractor trailer with head injuries. The child was taken to Geneva General Hospital, and was later airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital.
It was determined the two suspects attempted to set the 1-year-old on fire with the flammable liquids. The circumstances surrounding what happened to the 4-year-old are still under investigation. Both children are expected to make full recoveries.
Jamie L. Avery, Jr., 28, of West Palm Beach, Florida, has been charged with second-degree aggravated attempted murder, second-degree attempted murder, second-degree arson, second-degree attempted arson and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. He was remanded to the Seneca County Correctional Facility.
"We definitely are touched by these types of cases," said Lt. Timothy Thompson. "It hits home for those that have children. I think we are all doing well, and we have a support system in place to make sure we do well and continue to monitor each other to make sure we are mentally health. But no doubt, these cases take a toll, and are difficult and challenging to work.”
It is anticipated the second suspect will face charges in the near future. Additional charges for both suspects could come from further investigation.
