NEW YORK — A shocking incident unfolded in a subway station in Brooklyn when a woman was fatally set ablaze by a man on Sunday morning, according to police authorities. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who officials say re-entered the U.S. illegally, has been arrested on murder and arson charges.
The gruesome attack took place while the woman, whose identity has yet to be disclosed, was reportedly either asleep or incapacitated on a stationary F train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station. Authorities said surveillance footage captured Zapeta approaching the victim and igniting her clothing. Within seconds, her attire was completely engulfed in flames.
Jessica Tisch, the Police Commissioner of New York City, described the act as “one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being.” Meanwhile, Zapeta remained on a nearby bench, watching the horrific scene unfold without intervening as police and a transit worker rushed to extinguish the flames. Tragically, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
The arrest of Zapeta occurred later on the same day when he was spotted riding the same subway line. His apprehension was significantly aided by a group of quick-thinking high school students who recognized him from images circulated by the police and promptly reported their sighting.
As the legal proceedings take their course, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez expressed his resolve to seek justice, emphasizing the brutality of the crime. “The depravity of this horrific crime is beyond comprehension. We are committed to ensuring that this gruesome and senseless act of violence against a vulnerable woman will be met with the most severe consequences,” Gonzalez stated.
The address linked to Zapeta corresponds to a facility operated by Samaritan Daytop Village, an organization that offers housing and substance abuse support services. The organization, however, has not made any comments regarding the incident.
This tragic event comes amidst heightened security measures across the New York subway system. Earlier this year, Governor Kathy Hochul dispatched New York National Guard members to assist in conducting random bag checks for weapons, following a spate of high-profile subway crimes. Furthermore, additional guards were deployed for the holiday season to enhance traveler safety.
Gov. Hochul’s administration had also supported funding initiatives last year aimed at increasing the security in the subway, including the installation of video cameras in every train car. Michael Kemper, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s chief security officer, highlighted that these cameras played a pivotal role in swiftly identifying and capturing the suspect.
The response to this horrifying incident continues to unfold as the community reels from the shock and city officials reinforce efforts to safeguard public spaces. With the suspect awaiting arraignment, the city mourns a profound loss while grappling with the implications of this act of violence. The case underscores ongoing concerns about safety in public transit and the challenges of managing crime in urban environments.