In the wake of a series of recent random attacks on the New York subway network, which saw over a billion passengers in 2024, a high-profile incident unfolded involving a woman who was tragically set ablaze by a stranger while she slept on a train on December 22. The victim, identified as Debrina Kawam from New Jersey, succumbed to her injuries following the appalling attack in Brooklyn. The 57-year-old had previously been employed at the pharmaceutical giant Merck from 2000 to 2002, but her life took a downward spiral subsequently, leading her to reside in a homeless shelter after relocating to the city.
Charged with murder and arson in connection to her demise, Sebastian Zapeta, 33, allegedly exacerbated the flames with a shirt, enveloping her in the inferno, and callously observed as she burned while seated on a platform bench. Zapeta is scheduled to appear in court on January 7. A suspect was apprehended by law enforcement at the scene after being pushed onto the tracks.
Just two days later, on Christmas Eve, a man launched a knife attack on two individuals at Manhattan’s Grand Central subway station. Thankfully, both victims survived, and the assailant was taken into custody on charges of assault and other offenses, authorities confirmed.
Prior to the most recent incident, on Tuesday morning, Mayor Eric Adams of New York addressed the media, assuring the public that “Crime is not surging in the subway system. You know, we have some high-profile incidents, and we’re really disturbed about it.” Mayor Adams also emphasized that overall subway crime rates remained low. Nonetheless, concerns over safety prompted the deployment of over 1,000 National Guard members to patrol the transit system during the holiday season.
The recent string of assaults prompted the Guardian Angels, a volunteer group dedicated to countering crime, to resume patrols of the subway system for the first time since 2020. Established in 1979 to combat a surge in crime within the city, the non-profit organization has resumed its efforts to ensure the safety of commuters.
As the city grapples with these distressing incidents, the importance of maintaining vigilance and fostering a safe environment for all subway passengers remains paramount. Broaden your perspectives with the distinguished British journalism of The Telegraph. Experience a complimentary one-month subscription with unrestricted access to our acclaimed website, exclusive app, money-saving opportunities, and more.
