Sources: Alleged MS-13 Gang Member Charged In Queens Fire That Left 2 In Critical Condition
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A suspected MS-13 gang member faces charges after he allegedly set a fire in Queens that left two other members in critical condition, police sources tell CBS2.
Crews were called to the two-alarm house fire around 2 a.m. Monday on 41st Avenue in Flushing.
Investigators later determined a flammable liquid was used to fuel the flames.
Two men, ages 29 and 48, were hospitalized in critical condition.
Sources say they were both MS-13 members squatting inside the vacant residence.
The suspect, 20-year-old Melvin Gongora, had also been staying there, sources say. He was caught on camera fleeing the fire.
Sources say he told arresting officers something to the effect of "I have to get them before they get me."
Gongora was charged with arson, attempted murder and assault, among others.