A man has been arrested and charged in connection with the tragic death of a woman who was set on fire in a New York City subway early Sunday. Surveillance footage captured the suspect calmly approaching the woman, who was presumably sleeping on a stationary F train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station, before igniting her clothing with a lighter.
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the act as “one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being.” The burning victim was pronounced dead at the scene after transit workers and police officers extinguished the flames. The suspect, Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, was apprehended later that same day while riding the subway, wearing the same clothes and possessing a lighter.
Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan citizen, was previously deported after an encounter with Border Patrol in 2018. He faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder and arson, and his immigration status may result in federal actions following the conclusion of the criminal proceedings.
Police noted that there was an extensive surveillance system in place, which aided in the identification and capture of the suspect. Despite this tragic event, crime statistics show a general decline in major felonies within the transit system compared to the previous year, though there is an increase in subway-related murders.
In response to rising safety concerns, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has emphasized the importance of security measures, including the installation of cameras on all subway cars, to enhance public safety.
While the incident is shocking and distressing, it is encouraging to see the community and law enforcement come together to address the problem. The swift response and commitment to justice reflect a proactive stance in ensuring that the subway remains a safe transportation option for all commuters.
Ultimately, as the legal process unfolds, the hope remains that justice will be served, and that measures will continue to be implemented to ensure a safer environment for everyone in New York’s transit system.