Ukrainian Refugee Stabbed Aboard Charlotte Train; Released Footage Sparks Outcry

Surveillance footage released Monday shows a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, Iryna Zarutska, fatally stabbed by 34-year-old Decarlos Brown aboard Charlotte’s Lynx Blue Line on August 22, in what police describe as an unprovoked attack.

Officials and community leaders have seized on the case to debate mental health services and public safety.

Key Reactions

• North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein urged increased transit security and more officers on the beat.
• Former President Trump labeled the assailant a “madman” and vowed to confront violent crime nationwide.
• Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles condemned the “senseless and tragic” killing and pledged to bolster safety measures.

Brown, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries at the time, was arrested after leaving the train and charged with first-degree murder, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. A judge has ordered a 60-day psychiatric evaluation before Brown’s trial.

Zarutska emigrated in 2022 to escape the war in Ukraine and worked as an artist at a local pizzeria. Family and friends remember her as creative and compassionate, with aspirations to become a veterinary assistant.

Court records reveal Brown has a history of mental health crises and convictions dating back to 2011, including armed robbery and felony larceny. His mother had sought involuntary commitment earlier this year after he exhibited erratic behavior.

Brown’s next court appearance is scheduled for September 19, when prosecutors are expected to present formal evidence and seek to detain him without bail.