The man accused of fatally lighting a subway rider on fire in Coney Island last month pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to murder and arson charges in Brooklyn state court.
Suspect and Victim Details
Sebastian Zapeta, 33, ignited Debrina Kawam’s clothing, fanned the flames, and watched her burn to death early on the morning of Dec. 22, according to prosecutors. Authorities do not believe the two knew each other. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez has said his office thinks Zapeta either killed Kawam intentionally or acted with “depraved indifference” for her life.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Senior Assistant DA Matthew Perry asked a judge to continue holding Zapeta in jail without bail, and Justice Danny Chun granted that request. Zapeta faces charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and arson. If convicted of the most serious charge, he could be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Background Information
Zapeta was deported to Guatemala six years ago and returned to the United States at some point thereafter. Mayor Eric Adams' office has said Zapeta came to New York City before the most recent migration wave started in 2022. Kawam, who was 57 when she died, was from New Jersey and had experienced financial hardships over the years.
Subway Safety Measures
The deadly fire on the F train was one of several high-profile acts of violence in New York City's subway system at the end of last year. The NYPD pledged to send 200 more officers into the subway, focusing on train cars and platforms to ensure passenger safety.
Conclusion
Kawam was one of 10 people killed in the subway system in 2024, according to preliminary data from the NYPD. The incident has raised concerns about safety and security in public transportation systems.
subway, fire, murder, arson, Brooklyn, Coney Island
