People v. Rumble

OPINION OF THE COURT

Memorandum.

Order of the Appellate Division affirmed. Defendant’s statement to his brother that "I’m not responsible for what I did”, if interpreted by the fact finder as a relevant admission of guilt, distinguishes this case from those based exclusively on circumstantial evidence (e.g., People v Benzinger, 36 NY2d 29, *88132). Hence, the rigorous standards which obtain in circumstantial cases are not applicable.

The memorandum at the Appellate Division contains several unfortunate references to the lack of explanation for the cause of decedent’s catching fire. In context,…