Alleged Brooklyn Subway Arsonist Charged with Murder
Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, appeared in Brooklyn Supreme Court on December 24, facing first-degree murder charges in connection with the murder of a still unidentified woman.
More Disturbing Details Revealed
According to prosecutors, the medical examiner has determined that the woman’s cause of death was due to both thermal injuries and smoke inhalation.
Police Investigation Ongoing
Detectives are still working to identify the victim, who was burned so severely that she was beyond recognition. An ID to a homeless shelter was found in Zapeta-Calil’s pocket upon his arrest, but the Department of Homeless Services refused to confirm if he stayed at the shelter due to privacy concerns.
Zapeta-Calil’s Criminal History
Zapeta-Calil is an immigrant who entered the U.S. illegally and had been previously detained and deported in June 2018. He illegally re-entered the country and was arrested on December 22 for setting a woman on fire on the F train in Brooklyn.
NYPD Under Fire for Response
A video has surfaced showing a police officer walking by the woman engulfed in flames and not immediately jumping into action. However, NYPD Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta defended the officer’s actions, saying that he was trying to get fire extinguishers and ensuring the crime scene was preserved.
Legal Proceedings
Zapeta-Calil has been charged with first and second-degree murder, as well as arson. He has been held without bail and faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without parole if convicted.
Conclusion
Zapeta-Calil’s arraignment marked a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the brutal murder. As the NYPD continues to investigate and gather evidence, it remains to be seen what further charges or revelations may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the charges against Sebastian Zapeta-Calil?
A: Zapeta-Calil has been charged with first and second-degree murder, as well as arson.
Q: What happened to the woman who was burned in the F train fire?
A: The woman was burned so severely that she was beyond recognition. She has not yet been identified.
Q: Is Sebastian Zapeta-Calil an immigrant?
A: Yes, Zapeta-Calil is an immigrant who entered the U.S. illegally and had been previously detained and deported in June 2018.
Q: What happened to the ID found in Zapeta-Calil’s pocket?
A: An ID to a homeless shelter was found in Zapeta-Calil’s pocket upon his arrest. However, the Department of Homeless Services refused to confirm if he stayed at the shelter due to privacy concerns.
Q: What was the response of the NYPD officer who walked by the woman on fire?
A: According to NYPD Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta, the officer was trying to get fire extinguishers and ensuring the crime scene was preserved.
