NEW YORK (AP) — An 18-year-old high school senior, Hiram Carrero, was arrested and jailed on Friday on federal charges after allegedly setting fire to a sleeping subway passenger early Monday morning.
This incident occurs amidst a troubling series of violent acts on public transit in the United States, with Carrero’s actions prompting serious concerns about commuter safety.
During his arraignment in Manhattan federal court, Carrero was denied bail by U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni, who remarked on the disturbing nature of his crime, questioning why a young adult would engage in such behavior at 3 A.M.
According to prosecutors, the fire was ignited using a piece of paper that Carrero dropped near the 56-year-old victim, causing severe burns to his legs and torso. The victim managed to escape to the next station, where he was quickly assisted by police and rushed to a hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
“The victim very well could have died in this case,” remarked prosecutor Cameron Molis.
Security footage revealed that Carrero briefly boarded the train, started the fire, and then fled, only to later return home via public transport.
Investigators tracked down Carrero using comparisons between footage from the incident and previous police stops. His distinctive facial hair and clothing were key identifiers, although his attorney emphasized that he is a first-time offender who lives with and cares for his disabled mother.
If convicted, Carrero could be sentenced to a minimum of seven years in prison. A preliminary hearing is expected in January, where the prosecution may choose to escalate the charges through a grand jury indictment.
This case comes amidst heightened scrutiny on public transportation safety, highlighted by similar incidents across the nation, including previous arsons involving victims set on fire while on trains.
