man who set woman on fire arrested

Tragic Subway Incident: Sebastian Zapeta Charged in Fatal Burning of Woman in NYC

By Sharnellia Bennett-Smith

Brooklyn, New York – A shocking act of violence unfolded on the morning of December 22, 2024, when a woman was fatally set on fire aboard a New York City subway train. Authorities have arrested 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, who now faces charges of first-degree murder and arson for the attack. The horrific event took place around 7:30 a.m. on an F train stationed at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue terminal. Surveillance footage revealed Zapeta-Calil approaching the victim, who appeared to be sleeping, and using a lighter to ignite her clothing. The flames engulfed the woman, leading to her death at the scene. Disturbingly, witnesses reported that Zapeta-Calil stood by and watched as the fire spread.

Zapeta-Calil, a Guatemalan national, remained in the subway system following the attack. Hours later, alert teenagers on another F train recognized him from police-distributed images and notified authorities. Officers apprehended him, finding a lighter in his possession. He was later charged with first- and second-degree murder and first-degree arson.

Officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that Zapeta-Calil is an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala. He had previously been detained and deported in 2018 after entering the U.S. illegally in Arizona. The timeline of his return to the country remains unclear, sparking debate over immigration enforcement and border security. As of December 24, the victim’s identity has not been disclosed. Authorities cite the severity of the burns as a factor complicating the identification process, though efforts to confirm her identity are ongoing.

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez condemned the crime as a "gruesome and senseless act of violence against a vulnerable woman," pledging to seek the harshest penalties. Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams also expressed outrage, emphasizing efforts to ensure subway safety and prevent future tragedies.

"This is a sobering reminder of the challenges we face in maintaining public safety," Mayor Adams stated in a press release. The incident has reignited discussions around safety on New York City's transit system and the enforcement of immigration policies. Many commuters expressed fear and frustration, calling for enhanced security measures in the subway system.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the tragic loss of a life in such a senseless and brutal manner. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the victim to come forward to assist in identifying her.

For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned.