The prosecution of Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan citizen, is moving forward in Brooklyn Supreme Court. Accused of setting fire to Debrina Kawam, a homeless woman sleeping in a New York City subway car on December 22, 2024, Zapeta-Calil faces charges of first- and second-degree murder, as well as arson.
If found guilty, he could be sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
Details of the incident
The attack occurred around 7:30 a.m. on an F line train stopped at the Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn.
According to authorities, Sebastian Zapeta-Calil used a lighter to set fire to Kawam’s clothes while she slept.
Podría ser condenado a cadena perpetua sin posibilidad de libertad condicional
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He subsequently fanned the flames with a shirt and watched as the victim burned, subway security camera footage shows.
The victim, identified as Debrina Kawam, 57, died at the scene due to burns and smoke inhalation.
Kawam’s identification was achieved days later through fingerprint analysis and dental records due to the condition of his body.
Immigration status of the accused
Sebastian Zapeta-Calil had been deported from the United States in 2018 after entering illegally through Arizona.
However, he returned to the country at an undetermined date and was residing in a homeless shelter in Brooklyn.
Following his arrest, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued an immigration detainer.
But New York authorities, following sanctuary city policies, did not enforce it.
Development of the judicial process
Buzzy
During a hearing held on May 7, 2025, Judge Danny Chun authorized the use of DNA testing in the trial, which has not yet been scheduled.
The next hearing is scheduled for June 25.
Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is being held without bail at Rikers Island Prison and has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Debrina Kawam’s family has expressed their outrage and requested the immediate deportation of Sebastian Zapeta-Calil.
Kevin McCall, spokesman for the family, called him a “monster” and questioned how he was able to re-enter the country after being deported.
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