Horrific NYC Subway Burning: Woman Dead, Suspect Indicted for Murder

A 57-year-old woman, Debrina Kawam, from Toms River, New Jersey, tragically lost her life after being set on fire on a New York City subway train on December 22nd. The incident occurred on an F train stopped at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn.

Sebastian Zapeta, 33, has been indicted on murder and arson charges. Prosecutors allege Zapeta approached Kawam, who was sleeping, and set her clothing ablaze. He then fanned the flames before watching as she burned. Zapeta, who is from Guatemala and entered the U.S. illegally, was apprehended hours later thanks to a tip from high school students. He reportedly told police he was heavily intoxicated and doesn't recall the events.

Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences to Kawam's family and highlighted the incident's impact on the city's safety. He emphasized that the city's homeless should be in places of care, not on the subway system. The NYC Department of Homeless Services stated that they worked to locate Kawam's family.

Authorities confirmed that Kawam and Zapeta did not appear to know each other. Zapeta's given address corresponds to a shelter offering housing and substance abuse support. He remains jailed and has yet to enter a plea.

READ MORE: Prosecutors say man indicted in burning death of woman inside New York subway train