NEW YORK (AP) — Hiram Carrero, an 18-year-old high school senior from New York City, faces a federal arson charge following an incident where he allegedly set fire to a sleeping subway passenger, causing severe injuries. The event sparked nationwide concern over recent instances of violence on public transportation.
Carrero was arrested on Thursday and appeared in Manhattan federal court, where he did not enter a plea. U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni ordered him detained, citing the gravity of the crime. Carrero allegedly ignited a piece of paper and dropped it near the passenger on a northbound 3 train, leading to critical burns.
The victim managed to escape to the platform at 42nd Street—Times Square, but required immediate medical attention. Surveillance footage captured the shocking incident and identified Carrero, guiding investigators to his arrest.
Prosecutors emphasized the dangerous nature of the act, stating, The victim very well could have died in this case. Carrero faces a minimum of seven years in prison if convicted. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 4, pending a potential indictment from a grand jury.
Defense attorney Jennifer Brown expressed that Carrero is a young individual with no prior criminal record and highlighted his responsibilities as a caregiver for his disabled mother. However, after deliberations, Judge Caproni reversed an earlier agreement to release him under home confinement.
This case is part of an alarming trend of violent incidents involving fire on public transit in the United States, raising awareness and bringing calls for greater safety measures in these environments.
Carrero was arrested on Thursday and appeared in Manhattan federal court, where he did not enter a plea. U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni ordered him detained, citing the gravity of the crime. Carrero allegedly ignited a piece of paper and dropped it near the passenger on a northbound 3 train, leading to critical burns.
The victim managed to escape to the platform at 42nd Street—Times Square, but required immediate medical attention. Surveillance footage captured the shocking incident and identified Carrero, guiding investigators to his arrest.
Prosecutors emphasized the dangerous nature of the act, stating, The victim very well could have died in this case. Carrero faces a minimum of seven years in prison if convicted. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 4, pending a potential indictment from a grand jury.
Defense attorney Jennifer Brown expressed that Carrero is a young individual with no prior criminal record and highlighted his responsibilities as a caregiver for his disabled mother. However, after deliberations, Judge Caproni reversed an earlier agreement to release him under home confinement.
This case is part of an alarming trend of violent incidents involving fire on public transit in the United States, raising awareness and bringing calls for greater safety measures in these environments.
