Authorities have not yet disclosed the name of the woman, and investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack. NYPD spokesperson Joseph Gulotta noted that there was no prior interaction between the suspect and victim, and it remains unclear if she was awake when the assault occurred.

Details of the harrowing event emerged when police on patrol detected smoke at the station and rushed to investigate, witnessing the alarming scene of a person engulfed in flames. The suspect fled but remained nearby, sitting on a platform bench until apprehended. Clear footage from police body cameras aided in identifying the man, which was pivotal, as three high school students later recognized him on another subway train and alerted authorities.

Trackers followed the suspect to Herald Square station, where he was arrested, and a lighter was recovered from his possession. Further investigation revealed he migrated from Guatemala to the US in 2018. Commissioner Tisch praised the young witnesses for their courage, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in such dire situations.

This incident has prompted heightened discussions around subway safety and the treatment of vulnerable individuals in public spaces.