# Subway Horror: Man Pleads Not Guilty to Setting Woman on Fire

**A 33-year-old man, Sebastian Zapeta, has pleaded not guilty to the horrific murder of 57-year-old Debrina Kawam.**  The incident occurred on December 22nd on a New York City subway train.  Zapeta faces four counts of murder and one count of arson.

The attack left the city reeling and sparked renewed concerns about **subway safety**.

This tragic event adds to the ongoing debate surrounding **crime and safety on the NYC subway system.**



Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was indicted last month on four counts of murder and one count of arson in the Dec. 22 death of 57-year-old Debrina Kawam. CBS News New York&#039;s Natalie Duddridge reports.

Subway Horror: Man Pleads Not Guilty to Setting Woman on Fire

# Devastating Fire at Happy Cat Sanctuary

Tragedy struck the Happy Cat Sanctuary in Medford, Long Island, on Monday, as a fire engulfed the shelter, claiming the life of its founder, Christopher Arsenault, and over 100 rescued cats.  The incident has left the community heartbroken and sparked a massive rescue operation.

## A Hero's Legacy Lost

Arsenault, 65, dedicated his life to rescuing cats, establishing Happy Cat Sanctuary in 2006 following the loss of his son.  He lived modestly at the shelter, prioritizing the welfare of the animals above all else.  The SPCA described him as a "hero" for his selfless dedication.

<p>While as many as 150 cats may have survived, many suffered burns and smoke inhalation.  The Suffolk County SPCA is leading the rescue efforts, providing medical care to injured animals, and working to relocate survivors.  They plan to utilize their mobile animal surgical hospital – previously deployed at Ground Zero after 9/11 – to aid in the triage process.</p>

## Ongoing Rescue and Investigation

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.  The property remains cordoned off as authorities continue their work.  This is a significant and ongoing operation, with the SPCA working to find proper facilities for the surviving cats.

<p>Despite some past complaints about the shelter's location in a residential area, the SPCA confirmed that the cats were always well-cared for, healthy, and well-fed.  Arsenault had recently begun relocating some of the cats to a larger upstate New York facility.</p>

## A Community Mourns

The loss of Arsenault and the numerous cats is a significant blow to the community.  His dedication and the lives of the rescued animals will not be forgotten.  The outpouring of support from locals and animal lovers highlights the profound impact of this tragedy.


Authorities say a fire burned down a Long Island cat shelter, killing its founder, who lived there, and more than 100 of the felines he rescued.

Heartbreaking Loss: Fire Devastates NY Cat Sanctuary, Killing Founder and Dozens of Rescued Felines

# Trump to Rake in Millions from Bronx Casino?

Despite selling the Ferry Point Park golf course in the Bronx to Bally's, **the Trump Organization is poised to receive a substantial payout—a whopping $115 million—if the location is selected for a new casino.** This revelation underscores the complex financial entanglements surrounding the proposed casino development in the Bronx.

The deal highlights the significant financial incentives at play in the race to secure a casino license in New York City.  The potential windfall for the Trump Organization raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the process.  The situation is sure to ignite further debate on the ethical implications of such lucrative side deals tied to major city developments.

<br>

This development follows the recent announcement of Bally's plans to build a casino on the site. This is a high-stakes game with major implications for the Bronx and beyond. Will the substantial potential payout to the Trump Organization affect the decision-making process?  The public awaits further clarity on this significant development.


Although the Trump Organization sold a golf course in Ferry Point Park in the Bronx to Bally’s, it will still receive a windfall if the site is chosen for a casino.

Trump Stands to Gain $115 Million from Bronx Casino Deal

# Rikers Island: Five Inmate Deaths in Six Weeks Spark Outrage

Five inmates have died at the Rikers Island jail complex within the past six weeks, prompting renewed calls for reform.  This disturbing trend underscores serious concerns about the conditions within the facility.

The recent deaths highlight the ongoing challenges facing the New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) in ensuring the safety and well-being of inmates.  The circumstances surrounding each death are under investigation, but the sheer number of fatalities in such a short period is deeply troubling.

<img src="https://assets3.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/04/01/04779ba6-1e07-4cf5-8aca-64fc142fe95a/thumbnail/1280x720/6a33b9c02f51e7f4474fd2cb685c58e1/ffa40507deaf43c17bf73e3584973ea6.jpg?v=7613930c2bdb7d1bf55be910a9b022f2" alt="Rikers Island">

**Calls for Change:**  Advocates and officials are demanding immediate action to address the underlying issues contributing to these deaths.  These calls for change include improved healthcare, better mental health services, and a reduction in violence within the jail. The situation demands a thorough review of existing policies and procedures to prevent further tragedies.

The five deaths raise serious questions about the effectiveness of current correctional practices at Rikers Island and necessitate urgent action to improve safety and welfare for all inmates.

Five inmates have died at the Rikers Island jail complex in the last six weeks, officials say. CBS News New York&#039;s Jennifer Bisram has more on the calls for change.

Rikers Island Death Toll Rises: 5 Inmates Dead in 6 Weeks

# NYC Outdoor Dining is Back!

Outdoor dining is officially back in NYC for the 2025 season, bringing the city's vibrant restaurant scene back to the streets. But finding the perfect spot might be trickier than you think.

## Navigating the NYC Outdoor Dining Scene

The Department of Transportation (DOT) manages the program and provides three separate resources to help you find outdoor dining options:

1. **Interactive Map:** Search by restaurant name or location to see if a license has been issued.  [Link to interactive map](https://www.example.com/map) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)
2. **List of Applicants:**  A comprehensive list of restaurants that applied for sidewalk dining by the August 3rd deadline.  [Link to applicant list](https://www.example.com/applicants) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)
3. **Conditional Approvals:** A list of restaurants with conditional approval for roadway cafes.  [Link to conditional approvals](https://www.example.com/approvals) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)

Note that the availability of outdoor dining spots varies significantly across boroughs.  Manhattan and Brooklyn have the most options. 

## Rules and Regulations

The city has specific guidelines for outdoor dining, including requirements for cleanliness, noise levels, and operating hours.  Failure to comply may result in fines. [Link to guidelines](https://www.example.com/guidelines) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)

* **Operating Hours:** Sidewalk and roadway cafes can operate seven days a week from April 1st to November 29th, with varying hours. 
* **Cleanliness:** Areas must be clean and free of trash and unsanitary conditions.
* **Fines:** Non-compliance can lead to fines ranging from $200 to $500.

## Not Everyone's Happy

Some restaurants are unhappy with the new program, citing reduced seating capacity, restrictions on structures (like awnings), and complex application processes.  This has led some established restaurants to forgo outdoor dining altogether. The process is also seen as inequitable, with some boroughs having far fewer options than others.

## What's Next?

Legislation has been introduced to make the outdoor dining program permanent, addressing concerns about the costs and logistics of seasonal setup and takedown.   The availability of alcohol permits also adds another layer of complexity for some restaurants.


Outdoor dining is set to start today in NYC. Here&#039;s what to know to find the best table near you.

NYC Outdoor Dining Returns: Find Your Perfect Al Fresco Spot!

# NYC's Composting Law Sparks Landlord Backlash

Starting April 1st, NYC is cracking down on composting violations, and landlords aren't happy.  The citywide composting program, launched last October, requires separating food scraps and soiled paper.  But landlords argue they can't enforce the rules on tenants and will be unfairly fined for their tenants' non-compliance.

## The Controversy

The new rules mandate that food scraps and soiled paper must be composted, with fines ranging from **$25 to $100** for buildings with up to 8 units, and **$100 to $300** for larger buildings. Landlords like Christopher Athineos, who manages 100 units in Brooklyn, express concerns about the practicality and safety of enforcing the law:

> "It’s nasty stuff, and it’s hazardous. Why should property owners, porters, building owners, superintendents have to expose themselves to this?"

Kenny Burgos of the New York Apartment Association adds:

> "The law essentially amounts to supers having to dumpster dive through trash... It’s a law that is going to be incredibly difficult to comply with."

The Department of Sanitation, however, maintains that composting is essential for diverting waste from landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and preventing rat infestations, comparing it to the established practice of recycling.

## Financial Impact

The financial burden on landlords is a significant concern.  Fines can quickly escalate, especially for larger buildings, potentially impacting their bottom lines and tenant relations.  The lack of clear enforcement mechanisms for landlords makes the situation even more frustrating.

## Looking Ahead

This new composting law is creating a significant clash between the city's environmental goals and the practical challenges faced by property owners. The coming months will likely reveal the full impact of this initiative and whether adjustments will be needed to balance environmental concerns with the realities of building management.

Landlords say the new law is unfair, arguing they can’t control tenant behavior but are still liable for violations.

NYC's Composting Mandate: Landlords Revolt Against New Fines!

# NYC Batters by Severe Storms: Tornado Warnings, Hail, and Flooding!

<img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2025/03/2020-WNBC-New-Modified-6.png" alt="">

A line of strong to severe storms swept through the tri-state area on Monday night, bringing with it damaging wind gusts, large hail, isolated flooding, and even tornado warnings.  The storms initially impacted areas west and northwest of NYC in the late afternoon, generating heavy rain and gusty winds.

## Key Impacts:

* **Tornado Warnings:** A tornado warning was issued for Middlesex and Monmouth counties in New Jersey.  Thankfully, the threat dissipated and the warning was lifted.
    <iframe src="https://twitter.com/StormTeam4NY/status/1906880704945754461" width="500" height="400"></iframe>
* **High Winds & Hail:** Wind gusts of around 60 mph and quarter-sized hail were possible, causing significant damage.
* **Flooding:** Heavy downpours led to flooding advisories in the Bronx, Bergen, Hudson counties, and parts of Manhattan, causing urban flooding in low-lying areas.  <img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2025/03/2020-WNBC-New-Modified.png" alt="">
* **Airport Delays:** Newark Airport experienced significant flight delays due to the severe weather conditions.
* **Power Outages:** PSE&G reported active power outages affecting several customers and prepared additional crews.

## Storm Timeline:

The main line of storms hit northern New Jersey around 9 p.m., followed by New York City around 9:30 p.m.  The storms weakened as they moved east towards Long Island.

## Safety Precautions:

Residents were urged to remain indoors during the storms and to take necessary precautions to avoid potential harm from high winds, hail and flooding.  The city's emergency management office issued warnings about potential urban flooding.

<img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2025/03/image_b9a00a.png?w=933" alt="Severe weather threats">

While the tornado risk was low (around 2%), it was not zero, highlighting the importance of staying weather-aware.

[Here's information from the NYC emergency management office on how to prepare for a tornado](https://www.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/tornadoes.page)

Severe storms hit the tri-state area Monday. Damaging wind gusts, large hail, isolated flooding and even an isolated tornado are possible.

NYC Hit by Severe Storms: Tornado Warnings, Hail, and Flooding!

# Bronx Mall Mayhem: Teen Stampede Sends Shoppers into Panic!

Videos circulating on social media captured the chaos at The Mall at Bay Plaza in the Bronx on Saturday night.  Hundreds of shoppers were caught in a sudden stampede after a group of teenagers began running, causing widespread panic.

## The Scene Unfolds

Footage shows teens sprinting and circling the mall, prompting a panicked reaction from shoppers who were unsure of the cause.  The incident, which began in the food court with a reported chair-throwing incident, resulted in three arrests for disorderly conduct.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/example" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

One witness described the scene as "shocking" and likened the behavior to a "group mentality." Another witness, a salon employee, locked the doors out of fear, emphasizing the widespread alarm caused by the incident.  

## Reactions and Aftermath

While some, like Councilmember Kevin Riley, suggested increased law enforcement presence and potentially a curfew for young shoppers, others like Marcia Liberato, another witness, felt that the teens were merely "being children." 

The Mall at Bay Plaza released a statement emphasizing their commitment to a safe environment and their cooperation with the NYPD. They attributed the incident to a false rumor spread on social media regarding a social media influencer's presence at the mall.

## The Fallout

The incident raises questions about mall safety, the impact of social media trends on youth behavior, and the role of law enforcement in managing large crowds in public spaces.  The incident serves as a reminder of the potential for unexpected events to disrupt public order and cause widespread panic.


Videos posted on social media show mayhem at The Mall at Bay Plaza in the Bronx after teens started running and startled shoppers.

Subway Horror: Man Pleads Not Guilty to Setting Woman on Fire

Summary:

Sebastian Zapeta pleaded not guilty to the murder of Debrina Kawam.

Zapeta faces four counts of murder and one count of arson.

The incident occurred on a NYC subway train on December 22nd.

The case has raised concerns about subway safety in the city.

The attack adds fuel to the ongoing discussion on crime on the NYC subway.

Subway Horror: Man Pleads Not Guilty to Setting Woman on Fire

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Heartbreaking Loss: Fire Devastates NY Cat Sanctuary, Killing Founder and Dozens of Rescued Felines

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Rikers Island Death Toll Rises: 5 Inmates Dead in 6 Weeks

NYC Outdoor Dining Returns: Find Your Perfect Al Fresco Spot!

NYC's Composting Mandate: Landlords Revolt Against New Fines!

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Heartbreaking Loss: Fire Devastates NY Cat Sanctuary, Killing Founder and Dozens of Rescued Felines

Trump Stands to Gain $115 Million from Bronx Casino Deal

Rikers Island Death Toll Rises: 5 Inmates Dead in 6 Weeks

NYC Outdoor Dining Returns: Find Your Perfect Al Fresco Spot!

NYC's Composting Mandate: Landlords Revolt Against New Fines!

NYC Hit by Severe Storms: Tornado Warnings, Hail, and Flooding!

Bronx Mall Mayhem: Teen Stampede Sends Shoppers into Panic!