Man Accused of Burning Sleeping Woman to Death on NYC Subway
Arraignment Set for Tuesday
Sebastian Zapeta, 33, is set to be arraigned on Tuesday on murder and arson charges in connection with the death of Debrina Kawam, 57.
Suspect’s Alleged Actions
Prosecutors claim Zapeta lit Kawam on fire on a stopped F train at Brooklyn’s Coney Island station on December 22. According to authorities, Zapeta then fanned the flames with a shirt before sitting on a platform bench and watching as Kawam burned. Prosecutors say Zapeta confirmed to police he was the man in surveillance photos and videos of the fire, but claimed he drinks a lot of alcohol and did not recall what happened.
Background on the Suspect
Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who authorities say entered the country illegally after being deported in 2018, faces multiple counts of murder as well as an arson charge. The top charge carries a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole.
Indictment and Previous Arraignment
Zapeta was previously arraigned on a criminal complaint, but in New York, all felony cases require a grand jury indictment to proceed to trial unless a defendant waives that requirement. Prosecutors with Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez’s office announced Zapeta had been indicted in late December.
Legal Representation and Response
Zapeta’s lawyer did not respond to an email seeking comment on Monday evening.
Repercussions and Calls for Action
The killing has renewed discussion about safety in the nation’s largest mass transit system, even as crime in the subway remains relatively rare. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch noted that riders simply "don’t feel safe" and announced plans to surge more than 200 officers onto subway trains and deploy more officers onto subway platforms in the 50 highest-crime stations in the city.
Crime Statistics
According to data released by police, transit crime is down for the second straight year, with a 5.4% drop last year compared to 2023. However, Tisch emphasized that riders’ perceptions of safety are important, and the department will focus on boosting visibility and patrols in high-crime areas.
FAQs
Q: What are the charges against Sebastian Zapeta?
A: Zapeta faces multiple counts of murder and an arson charge, with a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole.
Q: What is the background of the suspect?
A: Zapeta is a 33-year-old Guatemalan citizen who entered the country illegally after being deported in 2018.
Q: What is the current state of crime in the New York City subway system?
A: According to police data, transit crime is down 5.4% compared to 2023, but riders’ perceptions of safety remain a concern.
