The New York Police Department (NYPD) is actively questioning a person of interest linked to the tragic death of a woman who was set on fire while sleeping on a subway car in Brooklyn early Sunday morning. The incident is being treated as a significant crime, with police reporting that the suspect had entered the U.S. from Guatemala in 2018.
Commissioner Jessica Tisch informed the press that the individual has been charged with first degree murder and arson, although a motive for the act has yet to be disclosed. The investigation benefited from clear surveillance footage, enabling the police to identify the suspect quickly. Commissioner Tisch expressed gratitude for the public’s assistance, highlighting the cooperation between citizens and law enforcement. Notably, three high school students played a crucial role by recognizing the suspect from the media coverage and alerting authorities.
Police had previously announced a $10,000 reward for tips related to the case. The incident occurred on an F train, where the attacker approached the sleeping victim and ignited her clothing with a lighter, leading to her immediate engulfment in flames. Officers nearby responded quickly upon noticing smoke and were able to extinguish the fire with the help of an MTA worker. Unfortunately, the victim was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect was apprehended calmly while sitting on a bench near the subway platform, wearing the same clothes from the incident and found with a lighter in possession. Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta commended the collaborative efforts between the police and the public in solving this heinous crime.
This incident, while deeply tragic, underscores the vital role of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement in addressing public safety issues. The prompt actions taken by both the police and vigilant citizens serve as a hopeful reminder of how collective efforts can lead to justice in difficult times. Anyone with further information on the case is encouraged to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers hotline, with assurances that all communications will remain confidential.