NEW YORK (PIX11) -- The NYPD has identified the woman who was burned to death onboard an F train in Brooklyn as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam of Toms River, New Jersey.
Kawam was set on fire and killed while likely asleep on a stationary train at the Stillwell Avenue subway station on Dec. 22, according to police. Her body was so badly burned that authorities said they would likely need to use dental records to identify her.
Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was indicted on state charges on Friday in connection with Kawam's death. He's currently being held at Rikers Island until his indictment is unsealed on Jan. 7.
Police say Zapeta allegedly set the woman's clothes on fire with a lighter and then fanned the flames with a shirt, causing her to become engulfed. He then sat on a platform bench and watched as she burned, according to prosecutors.
Shortly after, a group of teenagers called 911 after recognizing Zapeta on the subway based on surveillance photos released by the NYPD, officials said.
According to prosecutors, Zapeta identified himself in photos and surveillance video from the scene after being taken into custody. He allegedly told investigators he did not know what happened because he had been drinking a lot of liquor.
A Brooklyn address for Zapeta released by police after his arrest matches a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support.
“This gruesome and senseless act of violence against a vulnerable woman will be met with the most serious consequences,” said Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez.
This story includes reporting from the Associated Press.
Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here.
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