A 33-year-old man, Sebastian Zapeta, has been charged with first-degree murder and arson after allegedly setting a sleeping woman on fire in the New York City subway. The incident occurred on an F train in Coney Island, Brooklyn, over the weekend, prompting an immediate police response.
According to reports, Zapeta was arrested shortly after the crime when three teenagers recognized him from the photos shared by the NYPD. Surveillance footage and body camera evidence revealed that he sat watching as the woman was engulfed in flames. The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was attacked while asleep early Sunday morning. According to the police, Zapeta used a lighter to ignite the victim’s clothing, which caught fire rapidly.
Despite the quick response from officers and a transit worker who used a fire extinguisher, the woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Authorities pointed out that Zapeta did not know the victim prior to the attack, and there was no interaction between them.
Zapeta’s immigration status has drawn attention; he reportedly entered the U.S. illegally after being deported to Guatemala in 2018. Immigration officials indicate that he has been living in a men’s shelter in East New York. In response to the gravity of the situation, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez has emphasized the commitment to pursuing justice for the victim, stating that every New Yorker deserves safety on public transport.
This tragic event highlights the need for greater public awareness and prompt reporting of suspicious behavior, as exemplified by the teenagers who contacted authorities, contributing to the swift capture of the suspect. It serves as a reminder to communities about the importance of looking out for one another, especially in vulnerable situations.
In summary, the case underscores the horrifying realities of urban crime but also emphasizes community vigilance as a powerful tool in combating such acts. As investigations proceed, there is hope that justice will be served and measures will be strengthened to ensure subway safety for all.