Authorities have identified the woman who tragically died after being set on fire in a New York subway earlier this month as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam from Toms River, New Jersey. The New York City Police Department confirmed this information on Tuesday, as details surrounding the shocking incident emerged.
Kawam is believed to have recently moved to New York and had some limited interactions with the city’s outreach services while experiencing homelessness. New York City Mayor Eric Adams mentioned that she had a “brief stint in our homeless shelter system,” but did not specify when this occurred.
The suspected perpetrator, identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, was arrested shortly after the attack on December 22. He was charged with murder and arson following the horrific incident on a stationary F train at Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station. Prosecutors allege that Zapeta approached the sleeping Kawam, set her clothes on fire, and, disturbingly, fanned the flames with a shirt while watching her burn.
Mayor Adams expressed his condolences to Kawam’s family, highlighting the deep impact that such violence has on the community and underscoring the issue of homelessness in the subway system. “People should not be living on our subway system, they should be in a place of care,” he stated.
In light of this tragic event, the New York City Department of Social Services has committed to intensifying outreach efforts aimed at supporting unsheltered individuals throughout the city. The spokesperson for the agency conveyed the city’s resolve to help those experiencing homelessness access necessary shelter services consistently.
Zapeta, whose address matches a shelter providing housing and substance abuse support, remains in custody as the investigation continues. He has yet to enter a plea regarding the charges against him and was not present for a recent court hearing.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems. As the city moves forward in its efforts to protect individuals in need, there is hope that increased outreach will prevent such tragedies in the future. It’s vital for the community to come together to address the underlying issues contributing to homelessness and violence.