The backlash against Governor Kathy Hochul intensified as many social media users expressed their outrage over her subway safety post, especially in light of the shocking incident where a woman was set on fire on a Brooklyn subway train. Critics pointed out the stark contrast between the governor’s claim of improving subway safety and the tragic event that took place just hours earlier. “Governor, did you even check the news today?” one user wrote, highlighting the disconnect between Hochul’s upbeat message and the horrific incident.
The woman, whose identity has not been revealed, was reportedly sitting on the F train when she was attacked by Sebastian Zapata, a 33-year-old migrant from Guatemala. Zapeta approached the woman calmly before setting her clothing on fire, causing the flames to quickly engulf her. Police later discovered the victim, but despite efforts to extinguish the fire, she died at the scene.
While Hochul’s office continued to defend the subway safety improvements, which included deploying the National Guard and installing cameras, critics felt that the timing of her post was inappropriate given the circumstances. Many accused the governor of ignoring the daily realities faced by subway riders, particularly in light of the attack. “You don’t get to celebrate safety improvements when someone’s life was just taken in this way,” one commenter stated.
In the aftermath of the incident, the question remains whether the measures taken by the state are enough to address the rising concerns over subway violence or if more drastic changes are needed to ensure the safety of commuters.