The victim’s death was ruled as a homicide, cause revealed

The victim of the horrific incident on the New York City subway, in which a woman was set on fire while sleeping, has been ruled to have died by homicide. The New York City Office of the Medical Examiner confirmed that the cause of death was “smoke inhalation” and “thermal injuries.” This information was revealed in the complaint filed in Brooklyn Criminal Court, shedding light on the chilling details of the case.

Suspect charged with murder and arson

Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, was arraigned on December 24, 2024. He faces charges of first- and second-degree murder and arson. Zapeta-Calil allegedly set the woman on fire while she was asleep on a subway train, further exacerbating the horror of the attack by “fanning the flames” with a shirt, according to police testimony.

Attack details: a silent and swift act of violence

According to police reports, Zapeta-Calil approached the woman silently before igniting her clothes. Within seconds, she was engulfed in flames. Surveillance footage captured Zapeta-Calil standing on a platform’s bench, watching as the victim burned.

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Suspect’s claims and background

During his arraignment, Zapeta-Calil reportedly told authorities that he had been drinking heavily and could not recall the events of the attack. However, Assistant District Attorney Ari Rottenberg noted that Zapeta-Calil did recognize himself in photos of the incident.

Questions about the suspect’s living situation

When asked whether Zapeta-Calil was residing in a homeless shelter at the time of the attack, a representative from the New York City Department of Social Services declined to comment, citing confidentiality regulations related to ongoing investigations.

Immigration history: previous deportation and illegal re-entry

Zapeta-Calil’s immigration history has raised additional concerns. In 2018, he was issued an expedited removal order by the US Border Patrol in Sonoita, Arizona, and was deported to Guatemala. Authorities confirmed that he re-entered the United States illegally at an undisclosed time and location, further complicating the case.

The disturbing incident has heightened anxieties surrounding safety on the subway, adding to a growing concern over the rise of random attacks in public spaces.