In a tragic incident that has shocked New Yorkers, the woman who was set on fire and died on a Brooklyn subway train on December 22 has been identified as Debrina Kawam, a 61-year-old woman from Toms River, New Jersey. The horrifying attack took place on the F train, where Kawam was burned alive in a senseless act of violence.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed her identity on Tuesday, after conducting a thorough investigation using forensics and video surveillance from the subway station. Kawam’s death has left the community in shock, as details of the brutal attack continue to emerge.
The Attack
The attack occurred when Kawam was reportedly sitting on the F train at Brooklyn’s Coney Island station. Police say she appeared to be sleeping when a man, later identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, approached her. Zapeta is accused of setting Kawam on fire with some kind of accelerant, then using a shirt to fan the flames, causing her to be engulfed in fire.
According to prosecutors, Zapeta sat on a platform bench and watched as Kawam burned. He didn’t offer any assistance and instead simply observed the horrific scene. The subway attack was not only violent but cruel, as Kawam was a vulnerable woman who was sleeping in the subway system at the time.
The Suspect: Sebastian Zapeta
Zapeta, who was arrested shortly after the incident, has been indicted on charges of murder and arson. Authorities discovered that he is from Guatemala and had entered the United States illegally. Following his arrest, Zapeta was held in jail without bail. His indictment is expected to be unsealed on January 7.
At a press briefing, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez called the act “a malicious deed” and emphasized the vulnerability of the victim, who was apparently just trying to rest.
“This was a malicious deed. A sleeping, vulnerable woman on our subway system,” said Gonzalez, condemning the brutal nature of the attack.
Kawam’s Background and the City’s Response
Debrina Kawam, the victim of this horrific attack, had lived in Toms River, New Jersey, but had reportedly spent some time in New York City’s homeless shelter system. New York City Mayor Eric Adams mentioned that Kawam had a “brief stint” in the shelter system but did not provide further details about when she had been there.
Adams expressed deep sympathy for Kawam’s family, calling the incident “horrific.” He noted that such attacks have a lasting impact on how New Yorkers feel about their safety in public spaces. Mayor Adams also pointed out the larger issue of homelessness, stating that people should not be living on the subway system, and they should be placed in proper care.
“Hearts go out to the family, a horrific incident to have to live through,” Adams said. “It impacts how New Yorkers feel. But it really reinforces what I’ve been saying: People should not be living on our subway system, they should be in a place of care. No matter where she lived, that should not have happened.”
The Growing Concern Over Subway Safety
The attack on Kawam has reignited concerns over safety in New York’s subway system, which has been under increasing scrutiny in recent months due to violent incidents. The subway, a vital part of the city’s transportation system, has seen several high-profile attacks, and Kawam’s death is a stark reminder of the dangers that still exist.
Many are calling for better safety measures in the subway, as well as more support for vulnerable people who may be living in public spaces. Mayor Adams and other officials have emphasized the need for more comprehensive solutions to homelessness and the safety of public spaces.
Conclusion
Debrina Kawam’s tragic death is a reminder of the ongoing issues facing New Yorkers, especially those who are vulnerable or experiencing homelessness. The attack, which was both violent and senseless, has sparked outrage and sorrow among the public. As the investigation continues, Zapeta’s upcoming trial will likely bring more attention to the safety issues within the city’s transit system.
With the new year ahead, city officials are under pressure to take swift action to address the concerns of public safety and ensure that such violent attacks do not happen again. For now, New Yorkers are left to grapple with the shock of a senseless tragedy that has forever changed the lives of those affected.
(Source: newsbreak.com)
