Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez vows justice for subway fire victim

December 23, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez pledges justice for the subway fire victim. AP file photo by Jennifer Peltz

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez pledges justice for the subway fire victim. Photo by Jennifer Peltz/AP

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A gruesome and senseless act of violence shocked New York City over the weekend, as a sleeping woman was set on fire and killed aboard a stationary F train in Coney Island. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez issued a strong statement in the aftermath, pledging to pursue justice against the alleged perpetrator.

“The depravity of this horrific crime is beyond comprehension, and my office is committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice,” Gonzalez said. “This gruesome and senseless act of violence against a vulnerable woman will be met with the most serious consequences. Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe on our subways, and we will do everything in our power to ensure accountability in this case. I commend the NYPD for their swift work in apprehending the suspect.”

The crime occurred early Sunday morning when a man allegedly approached the woman, ignited her clothing with a lighter and calmly watched from a nearby bench as flames engulfed her. The woman, whose identity has not yet been released, was declared dead at the scene.

The NYPD released this image of the suspect in the subway fire homicide.Photo courtesy of NYPD — The NYPD released this image of the suspect in the subway fire homicide.
Photo courtesy of NYPD

The suspect, an immigrant from Guatemala who arrived in the U.S. in 2018, was apprehended hours later. NYPD officers credited surveillance footage, body cameras and tips from high school students leading to the man’s arrest. He was found wearing the same clothing as seen in the footage and carrying a lighter.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the attack as “one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being.”

The shocking incident has reignited concerns about safety in New York City’s subway system. While overall crime in the transit system is down compared to last year, murders have surged, with nine killings recorded through November 2024, up from five during the same period in 2023.

Gonzalez explained the importance of maintaining safety for all New Yorkers, particularly in public transit. “Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe on our subways,” he said.

As the investigation continues, Gonzalez’s office will determine charges against the suspect.