Victim Burned to Death in Horrific Subway Attack Identified

In a chilling incident that has left New Yorkers shaken, a woman who tragically died after being set on fire in a Brooklyn subway train has been identified by authorities. The victim, 61-year-old Debrina Kawam, hailed from Toms River, New Jersey, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD).

The attack occurred on December 22, just before 7:30 a.m., at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station. Kawam, believed to have been homeless, was sleeping on a stationary F train when she was targeted. Police allege that 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who had entered the U.S. illegally, used a lighter to ignite Kawam’s clothing while she slept.

Officers nearby detected the smoke and rushed to the scene, only to find Kawam fully engulfed in flames. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Zapeta did not flee immediately. Instead, he remained near the train, sitting on a bench, as officers arrived. His image was captured on body cameras and later released to the public in an effort to gather additional information. The breakthrough came when three high school students recognized him and alerted authorities. Police apprehended Zapeta hours later at a subway car in Herald Square. He was found with a lighter in his pocket.

Zapeta has been charged with first-degree and second-degree murder, as well as first-degree arson. He has yet to enter a plea. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez vowed justice for Kawam. “The depravity of this horrific crime is beyond comprehension,” Gonzalez said. “This gruesome and senseless act of violence against a vulnerable woman will be met with the most serious consequences.”

Zapeta’s immigration status adds another layer to the unfolding case. An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) spokesperson revealed that Zapeta had been deported to Guatemala in June 2018 after being apprehended in Sonoita, Arizona. He reentered the U.S. at an unknown time and location. ICE has since lodged an immigration detainer with the NYPD.

The shocking nature of the crime has sparked outrage and sorrow across the city. Local residents and subway riders expressed their grief and anger. “This could happen to anyone,” said Teresa Mendoza, a frequent commuter at the Coney Island station. “It’s terrifying to think that someone would commit such a horrible act in broad daylight.”

Homeless advocates also weighed in, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by those who take shelter in public spaces. “Debrina’s death is a stark reminder of the dangers homeless individuals face every day,” said Carl Bennett, director of a local shelter. “We must do more to protect our most vulnerable citizens.”

Little is currently known about Kawam’s life, but community members have started to leave flowers and notes at the Coney Island station in her memory. “She was a kind soul,” said one acquaintance who asked not to be named. “She didn’t deserve this.”

As investigations continue, the city mourns yet another life lost to senseless violence, raising questions about safety, mental health resources, and immigration enforcement.