The woman who tragically died after being set on fire in a New York subway train has been identified as a 57-year-old from New Jersey named Debrina Kawam, according to police reports released on Tuesday. Kawam had previously worked at pharmaceutical giant Merck from 2000 to 2002 before experiencing hardships that led her to a brief stay in a New York homeless shelter. Authorities notified her family in Toms River, New Jersey, about her untimely death on December 22.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences to Kawam's family, calling the incident a horrific tragedy. The unfortunate event occurred just hours before another disturbing act of violence on the subway system, where a 45-year-old man was pushed onto the tracks at a Manhattan station, leaving him critically injured.
While overall subway safety is comparable to the city as a whole, recent incidents of violence have raised concerns among commuters. Major crimes on subways were down through November compared to the previous year, but the number of killings increased.
In the case of Kawam, prosecutors revealed that she was asleep on a subway train in Coney Island when a stranger, Sebastian Zapeta, allegedly set her clothes on fire, resulting in her tragic death. Zapeta, who has been indicted on murder and arson charges, is currently in custody awaiting his next court appearance.
Authorities faced challenges in identifying Kawam, utilizing forensics and video surveillance to confirm her identity. Zapeta, originally from Guatemala and residing in the U.S. illegally, was apprehended after a tip from high school students led to his arrest.
As the city grapples with homelessness and safety concerns in the subway system, efforts are being made to assist individuals living on the streets and in subways by providing access to shelters and support services. The tragic incident involving Kawam has underscored the need for increased outreach to vulnerable populations in New York City.
The social services department has pledged to intensify its efforts to engage with homeless individuals and encourage them to seek shelter, especially during harsh weather conditions. Despite the circumstances surrounding Kawam's death, authorities are committed to enhancing support services for those in need within the city.
