New York Metro Arsonist Arrested: Suspect in Horrific Burning of Asleep Woman Identified
The New York Police Department has arrested a suspect in connection with the horrific incident where a woman was deliberately set on fire while asleep in a subway station. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Marc Johnson, was taken into custody following a massive manhunt.
The incident occurred early Monday morning at the West 4th Street-Washington Square station in Manhattan. CCTV footage showed Johnson approaching a woman who was asleep on a bench, pouring an accelerant on her, and setting her alight. The victim, later identified as Maria Rodriguez, 42, succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital.
"The NYPD is committed to ensuring justice for Maria Rodriguez and her family," said NYPD Chief of Detectives James O’Neil. "We will not tolerate such heinous acts in our city."
According to reports, Johnson has a criminal history involving arson and substance abuse. He was released from prison on parole just six months ago.
The NYPD has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS.
This article is based on reports from Politie, Telegraaf.nl, RTL.nl, Het Laatste Nieuws, and Het Nieuwsblad.
