Charges and Indictment
Sebastian Zapeta, 33, pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to charges of murder and arson related to the death of 57-year-old Debrina Kawam, who was set on fire while sleeping on a subway car in New York City. A grand jury indicted Zapeta on one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder, and one count of first-degree arson.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred on December 22 at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station. According to police, Zapeta used a lighter to ignite Kawam’s clothing while she slept on a stationary F train. He then fanned the flames using a shirt, according to the police complaint. A horrifying video captured by a bystander showed Kawam engulfed in flames near the train doors.
The fire was extinguished, but Kawam was pronounced dead at the scene. The medical examiner determined her cause of death as smoke inhalation and thermal injuries. Authorities took over a week to identify Kawam using fingerprint analysis.
Background on the Suspect and Victim
Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen living in a Brooklyn homeless shelter, was arrested days after the incident. He appeared in court in orange jail attire, with his hands cuffed behind his back and a Spanish interpreter present.
Kawam, originally from Toms River, New Jersey, had also spent time in the city’s homeless shelter system, according to Mayor Eric Adams.
Crime on the NYC Subway System
While serious crimes like theft have declined on New York City’s subway system for a second consecutive year, violent crimes, including killings, have risen. Police data shows nine homicides on the subway in 2024 as of November, compared to five during the same period in 2023.
Increased Police Presence and Public Concerns
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced an increase in police patrols across the subway system in response to Kawam’s death and other acts of violence.
“Declining crime numbers are significant, but we still must do more because people don’t feel safe in our subways,” Tisch stated.
Potential Consequences for Zapeta
If convicted, Zapeta faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without parole. Federal officials have also indicated plans to deport him, as he had entered the United States unlawfully
