A man has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly setting a sleeping woman on fire in a New York City subway incident. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, faces multiple charges including first- and second-degree murder and arson following the tragic event that took place on an F train in Coney Island, Brooklyn.
According to police sources, Zapeta was apprehended shortly after the incident when three teenagers recognized him from images released by the NYPD. Body camera footage and surveillance from inside the subway reportedly show him watching as the woman was set ablaze. The victim, who remains unidentified, was attacked around 7:30 a.m. while she slept on the train. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that Zapeta used a lighter to ignite the victim’s clothing, which caught fire rapidly.
Despite the swift response from transit police and an on-duty worker who attempted to extinguish the flames, the woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Zapeta, who is currently in the U.S. illegally, reportedly has a history of being deported to Guatemala in 2018. Investigators revealed that he did not know the victim prior to the attack, which appears to have been entirely unprovoked.
Zapeta was detained shortly after the incident at the 34th Street-Herald Square station, where he was dressed as described by witnesses and possessed a lighter in his pocket. His living situation at a men’s shelter in East New York has been confirmed, though the shelter has not publicly commented on his arrest.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez has condemned the act, calling it “horrific” and emphasizing the need for justice. He expressed the commitment to ensure that every New Yorker feels safe in their transit system and indicated that those responsible will face serious legal repercussions.
This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance, as seen when the teenagers alerted authorities after recognizing the suspect. Their quick thinking played a crucial role in the timely arrest of Zapeta, showcasing how ordinary citizens can assist in maintaining safety.
In summary, while this story details a deeply distressing event, it also emphasizes the collective action and awareness that citizens can display to help prevent crime and ensure justice. The legal process will now take its course as the community seeks both accountability and healing in the aftermath of this tragedy.