International
Suspect Charged with Murder and Arson in NYC Subway Attack
A 33-year-old Guatemalan national, previously deported from the U.S., has been charged with murder and arson following a horrific attack in which a woman was set on fire aboard a New York City subway train.
Incident Details
The attack occurred on December 22, 2024, aboard a stationary F train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn. Surveillance footage shows the suspect, identified as Sebastian Zapeta, approaching a sleeping woman and igniting her clothing with a lighter. The flames quickly engulfed the victim, who tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Apprehension and Charges
Zapeta was apprehended hours after the incident, thanks to tips from three high school students who recognized him from images released by the police. He has been charged with second-degree murder and first-degree arson. Authorities revealed that Zapeta had been deported to Guatemala in 2018 after entering the U.S. illegally but had since re-entered the country without authorization.
Official Responses
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the crime as “one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being.” Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez stated, “This gruesome and senseless act of violence against a vulnerable woman will be met with the most serious consequences.”
Public Safety Concerns
The incident has intensified concerns about safety within the NYC subway system. Despite a reported 6% decline in major felonies in the transit system this year, the number of murders has increased, with nine reported through November, compared to five during the same period last year.
Political Reactions
The attack has also sparked political debate. Governor Kathy Hochul faced criticism for a social media post touting improved subway safety, shared shortly after the incident. Critics, including former acting ICE Director Tom Homan, have linked the crime to broader issues of immigration enforcement and public safety policies.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, including how Zapeta re-entered the U.S. after his previous deportation. The victim’s identity has not been publicly disclosed, pending notification of her family.