New York police arrest man for setting subway rider on fire

New York City police have arrested a man accused of setting a female subway passenger on fire while she slept on a stationary train.

The horrifying incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Sunday as the F train reached its final stop at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station.

“The suspect approached the victim and set her on fire without any provocation,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch during a press conference.

The flames engulfed the woman, who was pronounced dead shortly after emergency responders extinguished the fire. “What’s most disturbing is that the suspect stayed at the scene, sitting calmly on a bench as the victim burned,” Tisch added.

The arrest was made later that day, with assistance from tips provided by subway passengers. While the names of the victim and suspect have not been released, authorities confirmed that the suspect is a Guatemalan immigrant who entered the United States in 2018. Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta stated, “At this time, we have no evidence to suggest that the suspect and victim knew each other. The motive remains unclear and is under active investigation.”

The gruesome act has drawn widespread outrage and highlighted ongoing concerns about crime in New York City’s subway system. “This is an unthinkable tragedy, and it underscores the urgent need to ensure safety in our transit system,” said an unnamed city official.

The case has shaken subway riders and residents alike, reigniting discussions about safety and mental health resources in public spaces.