DOJ Brings Federal Charge in Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee on North Carolina Train
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a federal criminal charge against the man suspected of committing a fatal train stabbing on a Charlotte light-rail system, marking a significant escalation in the case of Iryna Zarutska, the Ukrainian refugee killed in August.
New Federal Charge Carries Harshest Penalties
On September 9, the DOJ announced that Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, is now charged with committing an act causing death on a mass transportation system — a rare federal offense that can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty in certain circumstances. This federal action complements state charges already filed, including first-degree murder.
Attack Captured; Brown’s Criminal History Under Scrutiny
Surveillance video released by Charlotte transit officials shows Brown attacking 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska, who had fled war in Ukraine and was quietly pursuing her new life in the United States, by fatally stabbing her during a Lynx Blue Line train ride. The randomness of the assault and its apparent terroristic nature have drawn widespread condemnation, including from Attorney General Pam Bondi, who said the act placed “criminals before innocent people.” She urged prosecutors to seek the maximum possible sentence.
Federal authorities also noted Brown’s extensive criminal record, including 14 prior arrests, as well as mental health issues, including a history of schizophrenia that had not led to ongoing treatment or supervision.
Fallout and Political Firestorm
The federal charge has sparked intense political debate. Former President Trump and his allies have blamed Democratic-led criminal justice policies for allowing repeat offenders like Brown to remain free, calling the attack a “direct result of soft-on-crime” governance. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and Governor Josh Stein responded by pledging enhanced transit security and criticising systemic failures in pretrial release policies.
Meanwhile, public transit safety has become a focal issue in Charlotte. Authorities immediately increased staffing and surveillance on the Blue Line and are reviewing fare-enforcement and mental-health intervention protocols.
Justice Department Emphasizes Federal Role
At a press conference, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson called the attack a terroristic act — one so psychologically damaging that it required federal intervention to restore public confidence in safe transit. He emphasized that no one should “sit in fear while riding the light rail.” The FBI has also pledged to ensure Brown is never released from prison.
Brown’s next court appearance in federal court is scheduled for September 19.
Do you think federal intervention in violent public attacks should be more common, or should such cases remain in state courts? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
