An 18-year-old college student, Hiram Carrero, was taken into custody for allegedly setting a man on fire while he was asleep on a train passing through New York City. The incident occurred around 3 am on Monday at the 34th Street—Penn Station stop. The victim, a 56-year-old passenger, suffered severe burns and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Witnesses reported that Carrero ignited a piece of paper and dropped it near the sleeping man, causing his legs and torso to catch fire. Photos taken moments before the victim reached safety at the next station, 42nd Street—Times Square, showed Carrero’s alleged actions. Police intervened swiftly to extinguish the flames.
Prosecutors highlighted the severity of the crime, noting that the victim could have lost his life. Despite Carrero’s legal team emphasizing his lack of criminal history and family support, he faces serious arson charges that could lead to a minimum of seven years in prison if convicted. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 4, pending any developments from prosecutors.
Carrero’s attorney acknowledged the gravity of the allegations but also stressed his client’s young age and supportive family situation. Initially granted home confinement pending trial, Carrero’s release was revoked by Judge Caproni on appeal, citing the seriousness of the charges.
In a bid to maintain the release order, Carrero’s legal team pointed to reports suggesting alternative theories about the incident. The case has drawn attention amid similar violent incidents on public transportation, including a recent case in Chicago and a tragic incident in Brooklyn in 2024.
As the legal process unfolds, Carrero will continue to face the consequences of his alleged actions, with the community and authorities closely monitoring the developments in the case.