Charlotte Transit Authority Releases Chilling Video of Fatal Stabbing by Decarlos Brown

Lead Charlotte Area Transit System unveiled surveillance footage Friday showing homeless ex-convict Decarlos Brown fatally stabbing 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska aboard a Lynx Blue Line light rail train on August 22.

Nut Graf The video’s release underscores growing anxiety over rider safety and has prompted city officials to propose enhanced security measures on public transit, including upgraded cameras and increased police patrols.

Video Release and Official Response

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) made the footage public after media and community outcry over delays in transparency. The video, captured near 10 p.m. on August 22, shows Brown removing a folding knife, approaching Zarutska from behind and inflicting multiple stab wounds. Zarutska collapsed in her seat and was later pronounced dead on board.

Mayor Vi Lyles condemned the attack as senseless violence and announced plans to fast-track CATS’s security upgrades. The Charlotte City Council will review a proposal on September 22 to triple transit security funding and expand police presence on trains and buses.

Suspect Background and Charges

Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, was arrested at the next stop after receiving hospital treatment for a self-inflicted hand injury. Brown’s criminal record dates to 2011 and includes convictions for armed robbery and misuse of the 911 system. He faces first-degree murder charges and is undergoing a competency evaluation at Mecklenburg County Jail.

Public Safety Measures

  • CATS has appointed a chief safety and security officer and increased its safety budget threefold.
  • Plans are underway to replace outdated cameras with higher-resolution, real-time monitoring systems.
  • The City Council’s upcoming vote aims to authorize additional funding for on-train police patrols and coordination with CMPD’s Homicide Unit.

Community Reaction

Riders and local advocates expressed relief at the transparency but stressed urgency for tangible safety improvements. A GoFundMe campaign for Zarutska’s family has raised over $38,000 to cover funeral and relocation expenses, highlighting community solidarity in the wake of the tragedy.

Ongoing Investigation

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department continues to probe Brown’s motive. Detectives urge anyone with information to contact CMPD’s Homicide Unit.

The video release marks a pivotal moment in Charlotte’s transit safety debate, as officials balance openness with swift action to restore public confidence.