Trump calls the fatal stabbing of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska “horrible” but admits he hadn’t heard of the case. Suspect charged with murder.
Donald Trump’s Surprising Response After Ukrainian Refugee Stabbed to Death on Charlotte Train
President Donald Trump has reacted to the shocking murder of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, who was fatally stabbed on a train in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The Tragic Attack
On August 22, Zarutska boarded the CATS Blue Line train after fleeing war-torn Ukraine with her mother, sister, and brother.
She sat in front of Decarlos Brown Jr., the alleged attacker.
Surveillance footage showed Zarutska quietly using her phone with headphones in before she was suddenly stabbed in the neck.
Witnesses say there was no prior interaction between them.
Zarutska died at the scene, while Brown was quickly detained by police. He has been charged with first-degree murder.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department later confirmed:
“Brown will be arrested upon his release. He is charged with First Degree Murder. The investigation is active and ongoing.”
Suspect’s Court Hearing
Brown, 34, has a history of criminal activity and mental health issues.
He was denied bond at his August 29 court appearance.
A judge ordered a competency evaluation.
His next hearing is scheduled for September 19.
The CATS security footage, released on September 5, brought national attention to the horrific crime.
Trump’s Reaction
On September 7, when Trump was asked about the case by reporters at Joint Base Andrews, his response surprised many.
He first described the murder as “horrible.”
But then added:
“I haven’t heard … when did this happen?”
With more than two weeks having passed since the killing, Trump promised he would be briefed:
“I’ll know all about it by tomorrow morning.”
Remembering Iryna Zarutska
An obituary described Iryna as a “gifted and passionate artist” who loved sharing her creativity with family and friends.
She dreamed of becoming a Veterinary Assistant.
She was working toward independence by learning to drive.
She enjoyed exploring new places but was happiest at home with loved ones.
Her death has left a deep void for her family, who had already endured the struggles of escaping war in Ukraine.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Chat via 988lifeline.org.
Text MHA to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line.
