Family of Ukrainian Refugee Slain on Charlotte Train Speaks Out
© ABC11
On August 22, 2025, 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, who had fled the war in her native Kyiv seeking safety in the U.S., was fatally stabbed while riding Charlotte’s Lynx Blue Line light rail.
Surveillance footage released shows Decarlos Brown Jr., a 34-year-old repeat offender, randomly sitting behind her before suddenly reaching into his pocket, producing a knife, and striking her multiple times—once fatally in the neck. Zarutska was declared dead at the scene; Brown was arrested immediately at the next stop.
Family Demands Justice and System Reform for the Ukrainian Refugee
Moreover, Zarutska’s family—now united in grief thousands of miles from home—issued a powerful statement through their lawyers:
“We are heartbroken beyond words. Iryna came here to find peace and safety, and instead her life was stolen from her in the most horrific way… No family should have to go through this.”
They are urging prosecutors to hold Brown fully accountable and calling for broader public safety and criminal justice reforms.
Additionally, Brown’s brother, Jeremiah, echoed their frustration, pointing to systemic failures that allowed a diagnosed schizophrenic with 14 prior arrests to remain free—and warning that the tragedy might have been preventable.
Federal Charges, Death Penalty on the Table
The U.S. Department of Justice has elevated the case, charging Brown with a federal crime of causing death on a mass transportation system. This offense carries the possibility of the death penalty.
Moreover, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson called it a terroristic act, reaffirming the government’s determination that Brown “will never again see the light of day as a free man.”
Political Outrage and Policy Debate
The incident has ignited fierce public and political debate. Former President Trump laid blame squarely on cashless bail policies, arguing they allowed Brown to remain at large.
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles condemned the violence as senseless and praised the media’s decision to withhold graphic footage.
Community Reeling, Safety for Ukrainian Refugees in Question
Charlotte’s Ukrainian community has been deeply shaken by the violence inflicted on one of their own. One member said, “They come here to get away from war… and she looked safe.” The attack shattered that sense of security.
Why It Matters
The brutal attack on Iryna Zarutska highlights multiple critical issues: the vulnerability of refugees, gaps in public transit security, and the shortcomings of criminal justice systems dealing with mental illness.
As her family mourns a life cut short, their calls for justice underscore a broader demand for safer public spaces and more accountable policies.
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