Crime
Brooklyn Subway Homicide Victim Identified as 57-Year-Old Debrina Kawam
Authorities have identified the homeless woman tragically set on fire at a Brooklyn subway station as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam of Toms River, New Jersey. The horrifying incident occurred on December 22, when Kawam was attacked while sleeping on an F train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station.
The attack happened around 7:30 a.m. at the end of the F train line. Kawam, who had been sleeping with a blanket wrapped around her, was doused with a flammable substance and set ablaze. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, later identified as Sebastian Zapeta Calil, sitting on a platform bench and watching the flames before fleeing the scene.
The New York City Office of the Medical Examiner determined Kawam’s death was a homicide caused by thermal injuries and smoke inhalation. Her body was so severely burned that identification required significant effort from investigators.
Sebastian Zapeta Calil, 33, an undocumented migrant, has been arrested and indicted on charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and arson. Prosecutors allege that Zapeta-Calil calmly approached Kawam and used a lighter to ignite her clothing and blanket.
The heinous nature of the crime has sent shockwaves through the city and nation. Mayor Eric Adams addressed the incident, expressing condolences to Kawam’s family.
“She had a brief stint in our homeless shelter system, and your heart goes out to the family,” Adams said. “This was a horrific incident to have to live through.”
The attack has reignited concerns about the safety of vulnerable individuals in New York City’s public spaces, particularly those experiencing homelessness. Advocates are calling for increased security measures in subway stations and more comprehensive support for unhoused individuals.
If convicted, Zapeta Calil faces a life sentence for his crimes.
The investigation remains active, and authorities are seeking additional details surrounding the circumstances of the crime. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the NYPD.
CHICAGO — Authorities have launched an investigation following a fatal overnight shooting that occurred on the city’s South Side, leaving one man dead.
According to the Chicago Police Department, the incident took place shortly after 11:30 p.m. Tuesday in the 100 block of West 44th Street, within the Grand Boulevard neighborhood.
Officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire and a person shot.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a 28-year-old man lying unresponsive on the ground with a gunshot wound to the head.
The victim was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Police have not yet released the identity of the victim, and the circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation. No arrests have been made at this time.
Detectives from the CPD Area One unit are leading the investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Area One detectives at 312-747-8380 or call 911.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at CPDtip.com to assist investigators.