NEW YORK, USA — A court hearing is scheduled for Friday, December 27, 2024 for Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen accused of setting a woman on fire on a New York City subway train in what authorities describe as a random and horrific attack.
Zapeta faces two counts of murder and one count of arson for the incident, which occurred early Sunday morning at the Coney Island station in Brooklyn.
Prosecutors allege that Zapeta, 33, approached the victim, who was possibly asleep on the train, and set her clothing on fire with a lighter. He then fanned the flames with a shirt, intensifying the blaze.
“Zapeta sat on a bench on the platform and watched as she burned,” said prosecutor Ari Rottenberg during an earlier court appearance on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
The woman, who has not yet been publicly identified by police, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Zapeta was arrested later that day while riding a train on the same subway line.
Legal Proceedings
Zapeta made his initial court appearance earlier this week but was not required to enter a plea. His attorney has not responded to requests for comment.
The gruesome attack has drawn widespread attention, and Zapeta’s hearing on Friday is expected to address his legal representation and potential next steps in the case.
Federal immigration officials confirmed that Zapeta is a Guatemalan citizen who entered the United States illegally.
He was deported in 2018 but returned to the country at an unspecified time.
Zapeta has been detained at Rikers Island since his arrest.
Substance Abuse and Housing
The Brooklyn address associated with Zapeta matches a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support, indicating he may have been receiving services prior to the attack.
According to prosecutors, Zapeta told investigators he drinks heavily and claimed he did not remember the incident.
However, he identified himself in photos and surveillance footage capturing the attack, Rottenberg said.
Public Reaction
The apparent randomness and brutality of the attack have sparked public outcry and renewed debate over subway safety and the city’s handling of homelessness and mental health issues.
Authorities have not disclosed additional details about the victim or her background as they continue their investigation.
Friday’s hearing is expected to shed further light on the case as prosecutors prepare to present evidence, including surveillance footage, and address Zapeta’s history and motives. If convicted, Zapeta could face life imprisonment.
The case continues to highlight the challenges New York City faces in addressing public safety and providing adequate resources for vulnerable populations.
