Sebastian Zapeta Indicted on First-Degree Murder and Arson Charges in December 24 NYC Subway Fire Death

Dec 27, 2024, 11:20 AM

Sebastian Zapeta, a 33-year-old Guatemalan man, has been indicted on charges of first-degree murder and arson in connection with the death of a woman who was set on fire inside a Brooklyn subway train. The incident occurred early on December 24, 2024, when the victim, who remains unidentified, was reportedly asleep on the train. Prosecutors allege that Zapeta used a shirt to fan the flames after igniting the fire. During police questioning, he claimed to have been heavily intoxicated and could not remember the events leading up to the incident. Zapeta made his initial court appearance on December 25, 2024, and is currently being held without bail. His next court date is scheduled for January 7, 2025, when the indictment will be unsealed. Authorities continue to investigate the case and are working to confirm the identity of the victim, who was burned beyond recognition.