CATS Releases Surveillance Video of Fatal Light Rail Stabbing

Lead Charlotte Area Transit System unveiled surveillance footage Friday showing the moments before and after the fatal stabbing of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska aboard the Lynx Blue Line light rail on August 22.

Nut Graf The video release, occurring September 5, underscores growing public safety concerns on Charlotte’s transit network as officials face mounting pressure to enhance rider security and prevent similar attacks.

Video Details and Incident Circumstances

  • The footage shows Zarutska boarding the train at approximately 9:46 p.m. at the East/West Boulevard station and taking a seat directly across from suspect Decarlos Brown Jr., 34. Four minutes later, Brown produces a pocketknife and fatally stabs Zarutska in the neck before calmly walking through the car and exiting at the next stop.
  • Passengers initially remain frozen before one rider eventually breaks cover to render aid. Zarutska was declared dead at the scene by responding officers.

Suspect and Charges

  • Authorities arrested Brown immediately after he disembarked and treated him for a hand injury. He now faces first-degree murder charges and is undergoing a competency evaluation at Mecklenburg County Jail.
  • Court records reveal Brown’s lengthy criminal history, including prior convictions for robbery with a dangerous weapon and felony larceny.

Political and Community Reaction

  • Charlotte City Council members called for swift action to restore confidence in the transit system and protect riders. Councilwoman Dimple Ajmera demanded a detailed plan from CATS leadership outlining enhanced security measures on trains and platforms.
  • A GoFundMe campaign launched by Zarutska’s family has raised over $15,000 to cover funeral and relocation expenses for her survivors.

Transit Safety Measures Under Review

  • CATS officials announced they will increase uniformed patrols, install additional surveillance cameras, and expedite emergency call-box installations across all stations. A formal safety audit of the Lynx Blue Line is set to begin next week.

Broader Context

  • Zarutska arrived in the U.S. earlier this year to escape the war in Ukraine, seeking safety and new opportunities. Her death has reignited debate over crime prevention in Charlotte, which has seen a rise in violent incidents on public transit in recent months.