NEW YORK (AP) — A tragic incident unfolded in a New York subway train earlier this month as a woman was set on fire, resulting in her untimely death. The victim, identified as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam from Toms River, New Jersey, had a brief history in New York City’s homeless shelter system, according to the NYPD.
The suspect, 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, was swiftly apprehended following the attack and has since been indicted on murder and arson charges. Despite challenges in identifying the victim, authorities have been in contact with her next of kin.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences to Kawam’s family and emphasized the need for individuals to have proper care and not resort to living in the subway system. It was revealed that Kawam and Zapeta were not acquainted, and Zapeta, who is from Guatemala and entered the U.S. illegally, has a history of substance abuse and was residing in a shelter.
Prosecutors detailed the harrowing events that transpired on the F train, where Zapeta allegedly set Kawam on fire while she was asleep before callously observing as she burned. Kawam tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Zapeta, who has not entered a plea in the case, remains in custody. During a court hearing, he claimed to have no recollection of the incident despite being captured in surveillance footage.
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Prosecutor Ari Rottenberg revealed that Zapeta’s alcohol consumption may have played a role in the incident. Despite his claims of not remembering, Zapeta was able to recognize himself in the evidence presented.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez condemned the malicious act, highlighting the severity of the crime. It was clarified that Kawam was 57 years old, correcting earlier reports of her age.
