NYC Subway -Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, the man accused of killing a woman by setting her on fire as she slept on a New York City subway train, was indicted on state charges on Friday.
Prosecutors allege that Zapeta-Calil approached the woman on the subway, ignited her clothing, and fanned the flames using a shirt. The charges against him include one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder, and one count of first-degree arson.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez emphasized the gravity of the charges, stating that first-degree murder in New York carries a potential sentence of life without parole. “This was a malicious deed,” Gonzalez said, describing the victim as a “sleeping, vulnerable woman on our subway system.”
Although Zapeta-Calil waived his court appearance on Friday, he will be required to attend a January 7 hearing, where the indictment will be unsealed.
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Crime and Arrest Details
The horrifying incident, which occurred earlier this year, was captured on surveillance and police body cameras. Video footage reportedly shows someone attempting to fan the flames with a blanket, while another bystander films the scene. Officers later used the captured image of Zapeta-Calil to identify him, sharing it widely on social media. Three teenagers recognized him and alerted the police, leading to his arrest.
At the time of the attack, Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan national, was living in a homeless shelter offering outpatient services for mental health and substance abuse issues. His attorney has requested a psychiatric evaluation, suggesting a possible insanity defense.
Legal Proceedings and Immigration Status
Zapeta-Calil was initially charged via criminal complaint, but a grand jury indictment is required for the case to proceed to trial in New York. During a previous court appearance, he stood silently before the judge, surrounded by a dozen NYPD officers.
Federal immigration officials confirmed that Zapeta-Calil entered the United States illegally. He is currently being held at Rikers Island as authorities work to identify the victim, whose name remains unknown.
“This tragic case underscores the need for justice and accountability,” said Gonzalez, as the investigation continues.
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