Vigil held for woman killed in subway fire attack
Police say Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan migrant, set the woman on fire while others watched and recorded the horrifying incident.
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A vigil was held Thursday evening for the woman who was burned alive while sleeping on a subway car early Sunday morning.
Police say Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan migrant, set the woman on fire while others watched and recorded the horrifying incident.
The 33-year-old suspect has since been charged with murder and arson.
Community members, including family and local leaders, gathered to mourn the victim’s death and demand answers.
They are calling on the NYPD, MTA and Mayor Eric Adams to address rising subway violence and improve safety on public transit.
Many expressed frustration with what they see as a lack of intervention during the incident.
Some questioned why police officers didn’t intervene sooner, why there were no fire extinguishers on board, and why more support wasn’t available.
An MTA worker of 40 years also says these crises will continue if immediate changes aren’t made.
