Tragic Fire Incident on NYC Subway: A Case of Homicide and Immigration Concerns

A woman named Debrina Kawam, 57, was identified as the victim of a tragic homicide on the New York City subway. She was set on fire by Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen, who now faces murder and arson charges. Authorities are looking into his immigration status.

A tragic incident unfolded on the New York City subway earlier this month when Debrina Kawam, aged 57, was identified as the woman set on fire and later succumbed to her injuries. The New York medical examiner's office confirmed her identity through fingerprint analysis, ruling her death as a homicide.

Sebastian Zapeta, a 33-year-old from Guatemala, faces charges of murder and arson after allegedly setting Kawam on fire at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway stop. Zapeta reportedly used a lighter to ignite Kawam's clothes while she dozed on a stationary train.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security disclosed that Zapeta had entered the U.S. illegally in 2018 and was deported shortly after. They plan to pursue removal proceedings again after his release from New York custody, contingent upon his conviction and sentencing.

(With inputs from agencies.)