A woman who tragically lost her life after a man intentionally set fire to her while she was sleeping on a New York City subway train has been identified as Debrina Kawam, a 57-year-old resident of New Jersey. Initially thought to be 61, the New York Police Department confirmed her identity.
The New York City Office of the Medical Examiner determined that Kawam's death was a result of homicide caused by thermal injuries and smoke inhalation. The suspect, Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old undocumented migrant, has been indicted on charges of first- and second-degree murder and arson.
Zapeta-Calil allegedly ignited Kawam's clothes and blanket as she slept on an F train in Brooklyn. Despite claiming no knowledge of the incident during his court appearance, he was identified through surveillance footage and apprehended by authorities.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences and highlighted the need for better care for individuals who may be living in the city's shelter system. The delay in identifying Kawam was due to the severity of her injuries, which hindered initial identification efforts.
In a separate incident, a man waiting for a subway train was pushed onto the tracks by an assailant, sustaining injuries but expected to survive. Adams addressed concerns about subway safety, emphasizing the low crime rate compared to the high ridership.
Zapeta-Calil, an undocumented immigrant with a history of deportation and illegal reentry, faces serious charges that could result in life without parole if convicted. Surveillance footage played a crucial role in his identification and subsequent arrest.
The case has sparked discussions about subway safety and the need for improved security measures to protect commuters from such senseless acts of violence.
