Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, has been charged with first- and second-degree murder and first-degree arson after allegedly setting a woman on fire aboard a New York City train, resulting in her immediate death.
The shocking incident unfolded when Zapeta-Calil, reportedly intoxicated, set the unidentified female passenger on fire before sitting silently on a platform bench, watching as she succumbed to the flames. Law enforcement officials detained him shortly after the attack, finding a lighter in his possession.
Captured in disturbing video footage, Zapeta-Calil was seen stoking the flames as bystanders recorded the horrifying scene. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch condemned the act as a “brutal murder” and “depraved behavior,” emphasizing the tragic nature of the crime.
According to the NYPD, Zapeta-Calil was previously deported from the US in 2018 after crossing the border illegally in Arizona. Authorities are investigating how he re-entered the country.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez expressed outrage, calling the act “gruesome and senseless.” He vowed to seek justice, stating, “This horrific crime against a vulnerable woman will face the most serious consequences.”
This tragedy has intensified concerns about safety on New York City’s subway system, which has faced sporadic violent incidents in recent years. Fortunately, no other passengers or first responders were harmed during the attack.
The suspect was photographed in custody at the NYPD’s 60th Precinct in Coney Island and is awaiting trial. As investigations continue, the event has reignited debates over public safety and immigration enforcement.
