NYC Subway Burning Victim's Family Blames Democrats For Migrant Suspect

The family of Debrina Kawam, the 57-year-old woman who was allegedly set on fire and killed by illegal migrant Sebastian Zapeta on a New York City subway train in December, is demanding answers from Democrats about how Zapeta was able to re-enter the country after being previously deported.

Kawam was sitting alone on an F train in Brooklyn when Zapeta approached her, ignited her clothes with a lighter, and then calmly walked away to watch as help arrived. The horrific attack left Kawam with severe burns, and she tragically passed away more than a week later. According to police, Zapeta entered the U.S. illegally in 2018 and was subsequently deported. However, he managed to return to the country at an unknown time.

Family's Plea for Justice

Civil rights leader Rev. Kevin McCall spoke on behalf of Kawam's family outside Kings County Supreme Court in Brooklyn following Zapeta's brief court appearance. The family's statement expressed their profound grief and anger, questioning how a dangerous individual like Zapeta could be allowed back into the country after being deported. They demanded accountability from Democrats for their lax immigration policies under the Biden administration, which they believe have contributed to this tragedy.

"We as a family wanted to know how this monster, this individual responsible for taking her from us, was ever allowed back into this country," said McCall, reading the family's statement. "How was he permitted to walk free and committed such a heinous act? It's a question that weighs on our hearts heavily, and our minds, and I believe that question needs to be answered by the Democrats."

Zapeta's Legal Proceedings

Sebastian Zapeta appeared in court with his hands cuffed behind his back, wearing an orange jumpsuit and a brown jacket. His attorney, Andrew Friedman, stated that Zapeta was present for a brief conference on discovery where prosecutors requested a buccal swab from him. Zapeta has already pleaded not guilty to murder and arson charges related to the December 22nd incident.

Court documents reveal that Zapeta claimed to be in a drunken blackout during the attack on Kawam, who was reportedly homeless at the time. He allegedly told detectives, "I am very sorry. I didn't mean to. But I really don't know, I don't know what happened, but I'm very sorry for that woman." Zapeta also admitted to often blacking out between his home and the subway platform or vice versa.

Calls for Accountability and Deportation

The family expressed their desire for Zapeta to be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, demanding a life sentence and immediate deportation to prevent him from harming anyone else. They thanked Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for urging New York officials to take action against illegal immigrants who commit crimes.

Meanwhile, Zapeta is scheduled to return to court on May 7th. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.