Tragic End for Aspirational Woman Burned to Death on NYC Subway
New York City, January 1, 2025 — Debrina Kawam, a 57-year-old woman with dreams of becoming a flight attendant, was tragically burned to death on a Brooklyn F train in a horrifying attack that has shocked the nation. Known for her “million-dollar smile” and lively spirit, Kawam’s life took a dark turn before ending in an unthinkable tragedy.
Born and raised in Toms River, New Jersey, Kawam graduated from Passaic Valley Regional High School in Little Falls in 1985. Affectionately called “Debbie” or “Deb” by her classmates, she was celebrated for her cheerful demeanor, earning her the superlative “million-dollar smile” in her high school yearbook. Kawam had ambitions to party forever, as her biography humorously noted, and thanked her parents for their unwavering support.
Despite her bright beginnings, Kawam’s later years were marked by hardship. Sources revealed that she had been living in New York City homeless shelters from September until December 2, just weeks before her horrific death.
The Attack
On December 22, 2024, Kawam was asleep on an F train at the Stillwell Avenue-Coney Island station when she was doused with a flammable liquid and set on fire. Surveillance footage captured the brutal act, which left her unrecognizable. Her identity was confirmed through fingerprints more than a week later.
Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan national who had been deported in 2018 but re-entered the U.S. illegally, was charged with first- and second-degree murder and arson. Zapeta-Calil, who claimed he was too intoxicated to remember the attack, faces life in prison without the possibility of parole if convicted.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez condemned the act, stating, “This is one of the most heinous crimes we’ve seen. We are confident in our evidence and determined to bring justice for Debrina Kawam.”
A Community Reacts
Kawam’s tragic death has reignited discussions about public safety on New York City’s transit system, already plagued by violent incidents throughout 2024. This case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by the city’s homeless population and the broader issues of mental health and criminal recidivism.
Toms River resident Olga Corpion, who had purchased Kawam’s childhood home, shared a poignant memory: “She introduced herself and asked about her mom, not realizing her mother no longer lived there. It’s heartbreaking to think she was standing here, full of life, and then died so horribly.”
Ongoing Concerns
This attack is part of a disturbing trend of violence that has left New Yorkers questioning their safety on public transportation. The city experienced numerous high-profile crimes in 2024, including the murder of an NYPD officer and a deadly stabbing spree. Authorities are under pressure to address the surge in violent incidents and ensure the safety of all commuters.
Seeking Justice
As the case against Zapeta-Calil moves forward, Kawam’s family, friends, and former classmates are left mourning the loss of a woman who once lit up every room she entered. Her story serves as a tragic reminder of the human lives behind the statistics and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to prevent such senseless acts.
