Sebastián Zapeta
Sebastián Zapeta is a Guatemalan man currently detained at Rikers Island, facing serious charges including first-degree murder for allegedly setting a woman on fire in a New York City subway car in December 2024. With apparent issues related to alcoholism and drug use, Zapeta has expressed remorse for the incident, although he has little memory of the events surrounding it. He is expected to remain in custody without bail as legal proceedings unfold, with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) planning to deport him once the local legal process is complete.
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Recent news mentions
Sebastian Zapeta was arraigned on murder and arson charges for allegedly setting a woman on fire in the subway.
Transportation Sec. Sean Duffy slams New York Gov. Kathy Hochul over city's subway violence
United States· 2025-04-03
Sebastian Zapeta has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and arson in the death of Debrina Kawam.
Policía de Nueva York busca a sospechoso que prendió fuego a hombre en Times Square
Dominican Republic· 2025-03-17
Sebastian Zapeta has pleaded not guilty to murder and arson charges in the December 22 killing.
New York City Police are seeking person who set a man on fire near Times SquareUnited States· 2025-03-16The man accused of lighting her on fire, the Guatemalan migrant worker Sebastian Zapeta, was taken into custody hours after the incident.
Man set on fire in New York’s Times Square | New York
United Kingdom· 2025-03-16
Sebastian Zapeta is charged with the murder of Debrina Kawam after allegedly setting her on fire on a subway train.
Family of NYC subway burning victim say Democrats need to account for deported migrant getting back into USUnited States· 2025-03-15
Zapeta is accused of the murder of Debrina Kawan and is facing deportation.
Familia de mujer quemada en Nueva York pide la deportación del guatemalteco Sebastián Zapeta
Guatemala· 2025-03-13
Sebastián Zapeta is accused of burning a woman alive in a subway car in New York.
ICE promete ir tras guatemalteco acusado de prender fuego a una mujer en el metro de Nueva YorkGuatemala· 2025-03-07