A tragic incident unfolded in New York City on December 22 when Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan undocumented migrant, allegedly set a woman on fire while she was sleeping on a subway train. The victim, identified as Debrina Kawam, aged 57, was fatally burned on an F train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn. Zapeta-Calil has been indicted on multiple charges, including first-degree murder and arson.

Zapeta-Calil appeared in Brooklyn Criminal Court on January 7, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, which include one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder, and first-degree arson. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole.

The horrifying details of the incident emerged during the investigation. Reports state that Zapeta-Calil walked up to Kawam and used a lighter to ignite her clothing while she was sleeping. Witnesses described the shocking moment, saying that he fanned the flames with his shirt and casually observed as she burned. Tragically, Kawam succumbed to her injuries at the scene due to smoke inhalation and severe thermal injuries, as mentioned in court documents.

Zapeta-Calil's intoxication at the time of the incident was highlighted during police investigations. He reportedly told law enforcement that he had been drinking heavily the night before, and when confronted with surveillance footage of the attack, he reacted with horror, exclaiming "Oh damn, that's me!", as he realized the gravity of his actions. Despite his expression of remorse, police noted that he repeatedly claimed to have no recollection of the event, attributing his memory loss to his ongoing struggles with alcoholism (Reuters).

The fatalities on New York City's subway system remain relatively rare, yet attacks like Kawam's murder have sparked significant concerns about safety among the city's residents. Following the incident, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced plans to increase police presence in the subway system to reassure the public (CNN).

Zapeta-Calil's history of illegal entry into the United States has also drawn attention, as he had been deported in 2018 but managed to return. His attorney has argued for his need for medical supervision during incarceration due to his documented struggles with alcohol abuse. As the case continues to unfold, community leaders and officials alike express their intent to ensure justice for Debrina Kawam and safeguard the subway system from future tragedies (ABC News, India Times).

Zapeta-Calil is due back in court in March as the prosecution continues to build its case against him.