Tragedy on New York Subway: Woman Set on Fire Identified

Wednesday 01 January 2025 - 16:02

A tragic incident on December 22 has shocked New York City. Police have identified the woman who was burned to death inside a subway car in Brooklyn as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam, a New Jersey resident. Kawam was registered to an address in Toms River and had experienced a brief period in the city's homeless shelter system, according to Mayor Eric Adams.

The horrific event unfolded while Kawam was reportedly sleeping on a stationary subway car at the Coney Island station. Authorities allege that 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta set her on fire, used a shirt to intensify the flames, and then calmly observed from a nearby bench as the fire consumed her. Emergency responders pronounced Kawam dead at the scene.

Zapeta, who authorities say entered the United States illegally from Guatemala, was arrested hours after the incident. High school students recognized him from images circulated by police and provided a crucial tip. Zapeta has since been charged with murder and arson and remains in custody. He has not yet entered a plea.

"This was a malicious deed. A sleeping, vulnerable woman on our subway system," Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez stated, emphasizing the cruelty of the act.

Mayor Adams expressed condolences to Kawam's family and highlighted the broader societal implications of the tragedy, reiterating the importance of providing care for vulnerable individuals living in the subway system.

This deeply unsettling event serves as a reminder of the urgent need for both public safety measures and support for those experiencing homelessness. The investigation continues as the community mourns a life lost in such a devastating manner.