Ukrainian Refugee Fatally Stabbed on Charlotte Train, Suspect in Custody

Charlotte, N.C. — A 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee was fatally stabbed aboard a Charlotte light rail train in what police described as an unprovoked attack that has drawn national attention and political debate.

The victim, identified as Iryna Zarutska, was riding the Lynx Blue Line on the evening of August 22 when a man seated behind her suddenly attacked. Surveillance footage shows Zarutska listening to music with headphones before the suspect lunged forward, stabbing her multiple times, including a fatal wound to the neck. She was pronounced dead on the train.

Authorities arrested Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, moments after he exited the train. He now faces a charge of first-degree murder. Police say the attack appeared random, with no indication that Zarutska and Brown knew each other.

Brown has a lengthy criminal history, including robbery and breaking. Family members told reporters he also struggled with schizophrenia and should not have been free without supervision. Records show he was previously released under North Carolina’s cashless bail system.

The killing has sparked widespread grief and outrage. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles called the attack “senseless and tragic,” while North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein expressed heartbreak and pledged more resources for public safety. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina confirmed it is reviewing whether federal charges can be pursued.

Nationally, the case has become a flashpoint. Former President Donald

Trump cited Zarutska’s death in a speech last week, urging a federal crackdown on violent crime and blaming Democratic policies for Brown’s release. Democrats countered that Trump misrepresented state policies and warned against politicizing the tragedy.

Transit officials with the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) have announced plans to bolster security, increase fare enforcement, and expand surveillance in response to the incident.

Meanwhile, a fundraiser launched in Zarutska’s memory has raised tens of thousands of dollars in support.

Brown remains in custody without bond. His next court appearance has not yet been scheduled.