Ukrainian Refugee Fatally Stabbed at Charlotte Light Rail Station; Suspect Charged With Murder
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who fled her war-torn homeland for safety in the United States was fatally stabbed at a Charlotte light rail station, with a repeat offender now facing a first-degree murder charge.
Attack Captured on Surveillance Video
The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) released surveillance footage showing Iryna Zarutska being stabbed from behind on August 22 at the East/West Boulevard station in South End. The video, described as graphic, captured the moments before and after the attack.
Zarutska was pronounced dead at the scene just before 10 p.m., suffering multiple stab wounds. Officials confirmed she had no prior connection to her attacker.
Suspect Identified as Repeat Offender
Police identified the suspect as Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, who did not have a transit ticket at the time. Records show Brown had been arrested at least 14 times in Mecklenburg County since 2011, with prior convictions including robbery with a dangerous weapon.
Brown was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after the incident and will be taken into custody upon release. He faces a charge of first-degree murder.
Concerns About Mental Health
Court documents obtained by local media show Brown was homeless and had exhibited troubling behavior earlier this year. In January, he told officers he believed someone had implanted a “man-made material” in his body controlling when he ate, walked, and talked. Police determined it was a medical issue but did not pursue further action.
Advocates say the case underscores ongoing concerns about untreated mental illness and repeat offenders cycling through the justice system.
Community Mourning
Zarutska’s death has devastated Charlotte’s Ukrainian community, where many refugees had hoped to build new lives. Residents held vigils honoring her memory and calling for stronger safety measures on the city’s transit system.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department says the case remains under active investigation.
Do you believe Charlotte needs stronger mental health interventions for repeat offenders to prevent tragedies like this? Share your views with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
