ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Testimony continued Friday in the murder and arson trial of Taquida Hendrix, accused of setting a house fire on Portland Avenue that killed 5-year-old Malakai Stovall in July 2024.

In emotional testimony, Hendrix’s sister, Tiakayla Hendrix, told jurors she not only witnessed the fire being set but helped plan it.

Tiakayla said the incident began earlier that day after their father was allegedly assaulted. While waiting to visit him at Rochester General Hospital, she recalled Roy Chambers, who was also charged in the case, suggesting the home of the suspected attacker should be burned down.

According to her testimony, the three drove to the house, poured liquid around the porch and perimeter, and set the fire. Stovall, who lived there, was killed.

Assistant District At

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