The woman who tragically lost her life in a deliberate subway fire attack in New York City has been identified as Debrina Kawam, a 57-year-old resident of New Jersey. Initially thought to be 61, the New York City Office of the Medical Examiner determined that Kawam died from homicide due to 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. During his court appearance, Zapeta-Calil claimed no knowledge of the incident, citing alcohol consumption. However, he was identified in photos related to the attack.
Police reported that Zapeta-Calil calmly approached Kawam as she slept on a subway train, setting her clothes and blanket on fire. The incident occurred on December 22 on an F train in Brooklyn. Mayor Eric Adams emphasized that individuals should not be living in the subway system and should have access to proper care.
Authorities faced challenges in identifying Kawam due to her initial classification as homeless. Advanced fingerprinting and DNA evidence were crucial in confirming her identity. Surveillance footage played a key role in locating the suspect, as high school students recognized Zapeta-Calil from released images.
Zapeta-Calil, an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, had been deported in 2018 and re-entered the US illegally. His recent address was listed as a Brooklyn homeless shelter for men dealing with substance abuse.
The Brooklyn District Attorney expressed confidence in the evidence against Zapeta-Calil, highlighting the severity of the charges. Murder in the first degree carries the potential for life without parole, making it a significant case in New York state law.
