Man Accused of Igniting Fire in Subway Allegedly Used a Shirt to Spread Blaze

By CBS New York

– Officials are providing additional insights into the case.

Sebastian Zapeta, aged 33, is accused of immolating a woman on the F train in Coney Island, Brooklyn, on a Sunday.

Zapeta faced charges in Brooklyn Criminal Court on Tuesday following his arrest on Sunday night.

Authorities Claim Suspect Accelerated Fire with a Shirt

Based on the legal document, Zapeta is said to have set the victim's attire ablaze and intensified the fire by waving a shirt, causing her to be fully swallowed by flames. Police say they have footage from body cameras, surveillance on the train, and accounts from witnesses regarding the act.

Victim of Subway Fire Yet to be Identified

Authorities have not provided any details about the person who perished. The unidentified woman, labeled as Jane Doe in the records, died from severe burns and smoke inhalation as stated by the coroner. There were no prior interactions between her and Zapeta before the tragic event.

Immigration Status of Suspect Under Scrutiny

It was revealed that Zapeta unlawfully entered the country in 2018, was subsequently deported, and re-entered the United States illegally. At the time of apprehension, a lighter was found on him. He resides in a homeless shelter situated in East New York.

Eric Gonzalez, Brooklyn District Attorney, expressed commitment to prosecuting the case, emphasizing the heinous nature of the crime and pledging that justice will be served for the senseless attack on a defenseless woman.