Sebastian Zapeta Acknowledges His Actions in NYC Subway Burning Case During Police Interview

The man accused of setting a woman on fire in a New York City subway expressed shock when shown video footage of the incident. "Oh, damn, that's me," he reportedly said, although he claimed to have no memory of the event. This statement was revealed in a transcript released after Sebastian Zapeta, 33, pleaded not guilty to murder and arson charges in Brooklyn court.

During his arraignment, Zapeta kept his eyes down as his lawyer entered a not guilty plea. A Spanish translator assisted him throughout the proceedings. Prosecutors allege that on December 22, Zapeta set fire to Debrina Kawam, 57, on a stationary train. They claim he fanned the flames with a shirt and watched from a bench.

Background and Legal Proceedings

Zapeta, who is from Guatemala and entered the U.S. illegally five years ago, was deported in 2018. He had been living in a Brooklyn shelter and working as a roofer. If convicted on the top charge, he could face life imprisonment without parole. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez stated that they are pursuing charges under the theory of an intentional act.

Gonzalez commented on the severity of the crime: "It is difficult to fathom what could lead someone to commit the atrocious and horrific murder with which this defendant is charged." He emphasized that Ms Kawam and her family deserve justice and that New Yorkers should feel safe on public transport.

Victim's Background

Kawam grew up in Little Falls, New Jersey, where she was known as a popular student and cheerleader at Passaic Valley Regional High School. In her 20s, she travelled to places like Jamaica and Las Vegas with friends. However, her life later faced challenges including debt and bankruptcy.

Public records show that Kawam filed for bankruptcy in 2008 with over $90,000 in debt. She had no income at the time and listed minimal assets. She had also been arrested several times for minor offenses according to court records.

Impact on Public Safety

The incident has sparked renewed concerns about safety in New York City's subway system. Despite a decline in transit crime for two consecutive years, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch acknowledged that many riders still feel unsafe. In response, over 200 officers will be deployed to subway trains and platforms at high-crime stations.

Tisch noted that most transit crimes occur on trains and platforms, highlighting the need for increased police presence there. "This is just the beginning," she stated during a news conference discussing recent crime statistics.

Kawam's friends described her as someone who worked various jobs but never held one for long. She briefly stayed at a homeless shelter after moving to New York City recently. The Department of Social Services confirmed her stay but did not specify when it occurred.

Zapeta's lawyer did not respond to requests for comment regarding the case. Meanwhile, messages have been left for possible relatives of Kawam by The Associated Press.