Suspect charged after setting woman on fire in NYC subway, resulting in her death.
Sebastian Zapeta, a 33-year-old man living in a Brooklyn homeless shelter, has been charged with murder and arson following a deadly incident on a New York City subway. On Dec 22, Zapeta allegedly set a woman on fire while she appeared to be asleep on a stationary F train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station.
Using a lighter, Zapeta ignited the woman’s clothing and fanned the flames with a shirt, ultimately engulfing her in fire. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene, with the cause of death confirmed as smoke inhalation and thermal injuries.
Zapeta faces three felony charges: first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and first-degree arson. All charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison. During his arraignment on Dec 24, Zapeta was ordered to remain in jail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Dec 27.
Authorities have revealed that Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen, entered the U.S. unlawfully. The Department of Homeland Security is preparing to initiate deportation proceedings. Zapeta’s public defender has not responded to requests for comment.
