Manhattan Teen Arrested for Attempted Murder After Setting Homeless Subway Rider on Fire
NEW YORK, N.Y. — An 18-year-old Manhattan resident has been arrested and charged with attempted murder, arson, and multiple counts of assault after a homeless man was set ablaze while sleeping on a New York City subway train early Monday morning. Authorities identified the suspect as Hiram Carrero, who allegedly doused the 56-year-old victim in a flammable substance and ignited him aboard the No. 3 train shortly after 3 a.m. at Penn Station.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) said Carrero boarded the train and, upon seeing the homeless man asleep, deliberately set him on fire before fleeing the scene. The victim sustained severe burns and was transported to a hospital, where he is currently expected to survive despite the extent of his injuries. Law enforcement sources revealed the intensity of the blaze was so severe that skin was found on one of the subway seats.
The NYPD released surveillance footage showing a man wearing a gray jacket and black hat entering the subway platform, which helped lead to Carrero’s arrest. Police charged him with attempted murder, three counts of assault, criminal mischief, arson, and reckless endangerment. This incident has reignited concerns about safety in the city’s transit system and the vulnerability of homeless individuals.
New York City has seen a troubling pattern of violent attacks on its subway system in recent years. In December 2024, a woman was fatally set on fire in an unprovoked attack on a Brooklyn subway train. The suspect in that case, Sebastian Zapeta, a previously deported immigrant from Guatemala, was arrested shortly after the incident. The NYPD continues to work closely with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to enhance security measures and prevent such tragedies.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from city officials and advocacy groups. The NYPD has urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in preventing violent crimes.
Experts note that attacks targeting homeless individuals in public spaces highlight the urgent need for expanded social services and protective measures. The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness has advocated for increased funding and coordinated efforts to address homelessness and related vulnerabilities.
Meanwhile, the Federal Transit Administration is collaborating with local agencies to improve safety protocols across transit systems nationwide, including enhanced surveillance and rapid response teams.
This latest incident underscores the challenges facing urban centers in safeguarding all residents, particularly those most at risk. Authorities continue their investigation into the motive behind the attack and are reviewing Carrero’s background, which reportedly includes previous arrests. The case is pending further legal proceedings.
For ongoing updates on public safety and law enforcement efforts in New York City, visit the official City of New York website.
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