The cause of death of a 57-year-old woman who touched off an inferno aboard a subway car has been released by New York authorities. According to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, preliminary investigation revealed that she died of severe thermal and inhalation injuries.
Forensic Breakthrough Identifies Victim
Debrina Kawam of New Jersey had been riding an F train in Brooklyn’s Coney Island when she was beaten to death. Thermal injury refers to the burning of tissues or burn from intense heat, while inhalation injury usually occurs with the inhalation of substances, including smoke, that is highly destructive to the lungs and the respiratory system.
Identification was not easy in the beginning for Kawam, who had suffered severe burns. However, forensic experts identified her from fingerprint analysis. The sad incident, now a homicide case, has left a scar on the city as it tries to come to terms with how one of its daughters met her death.
Timeline of a Harrowing Incident
It happened on December 22 when Kawam was just sleeping on the subway. Security footage captured the suspect, identified as Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, casually walking up to her and setting her clothes on fire, allegedly using a lighter. In seconds, she was in full flames.
According to officials, including NYPD Chief of Transit Joseph M. Gulotta, Kawam did not provoke the suspect before the attack in any way. The evident random assault has sent shockwaves into the community, with many residents demanding increased security in the public transportation system.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Zapeta-Calil was booked on charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and first-degree arson. He could face life in prison without parole if convicted. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance January 7 and has not entered a plea.
Meanwhile, as the case drags on, Kawam, lost to the world in most cruel fashion, is not forgotten within his community. “The brutal attack has ignited debates on the safety of people in New York City transportation and on how safety can be ensured via precautionary measures.
The subway system is an important artery of the city, carrying millions of people daily. An incident like this is a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities in public space and how vigilance demands speedy justice for victims and their families.
