Debrina Kawam Obituary, Death – The woman who was tragically killed in a Brooklyn subway car after being set on fire has been tentatively identified by police. Authorities used fingerprint, dental, and DNA evidence to identify her as 61-year-old Debrina Kawam. She is believed to have been homeless and sleeping on the subway when she was attacked.
The incident, which took place last week, led to the indictment of 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, who was charged with four counts of murder, including one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder, and first-degree arson. The indictment was announced during a brief hearing on Friday, although Zapeta was not present. He is scheduled to be arraigned on January 7.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez spoke about the severity of the charges, noting that a first-degree murder charge carries the possibility of life without parole. Gonzalez emphasized that the case is more significant in state court than it would be in federal court. He also reassured the public that the case would be pursued in state court, although the NYPD was working closely with federal agencies, including Homeland Security and ICE, following directions from Mayor Eric Adams to explore the criminal prosecution of undocumented immigrants.
The indictment follows a grand jury’s review of graphic surveillance footage that captured the horrific incident. Gonzalez expressed gratitude to the jurors who had to watch the video, describing the act as a “malicious deed.” He highlighted the vulnerability of the victim, who was asleep and defenseless when she was set on fire. Gonzalez vowed to prove in court that the attack was intentional.
Zapeta was apprehended later the same day while riding a train on the same subway line. Despite initially claiming not to know what had happened, Zapeta identified himself in surveillance photos and video showing him lighting the fire. Police later discovered that Zapeta had a Brooklyn address linked to a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support.
Further investigation revealed that Zapeta had been deported in 2018 but had illegally re-entered the United States at some point afterward. This revelation has added to the public outcry, raising concerns about immigration enforcement and safety within the nation’s largest public transportation system.
The incident has reignited fears about the safety of the New York City subway system. While it is one of the busiest transit networks in the world, this tragedy has highlighted the risks faced by vulnerable individuals, particularly the homeless, who often rely on the subway for shelter. The horrifying nature of the crime has raised questions about the adequacy of security measures and the overall safety of passengers and those seeking refuge in the transit system.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the case, and the community is grappling with the aftermath of such a brutal and senseless act. The NYPD and District Attorney’s Office are working to ensure that justice is served, and the tragic death of Debrina Kawam serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater protection and vigilance in the subway system.