Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, 23, fled war in Kyiv to start a new life in North Carolina. Her dream ended in tragedy when she was fatally stabbed on a Charlotte train.
The shocking death of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, has left her family and community in mourning. Having fled Ukraine for safety and opportunity, she came to North Carolina with hopes of building a new life. Instead, her dream ended in tragedy when she was fatally stabbed on a Charlotte light-rail train on August 22.
A Life Full of Promise
Iryna had been working at a pizzeria and attending community college while studying English. She was saving money for her first car, preparing for her driver’s test, and pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinary assistant. Friends and family described her as the “glue of the family,” always ready to help and quick to brighten a room with her smile.
She also loved art, having graduated in Kyiv with a degree in Art and Restoration. She often created unique clothing pieces and sculptures, and she cherished caring for pets in her neighborhood.
The Tragic Attack
On the night of her death, Iryna was traveling home from work on the Lynx Blue Line train when she was suddenly attacked. Surveillance footage showed the suspect, Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, sitting behind her before pulling a knife and stabbing her multiple times.
Police quickly apprehended Brown, who has a long criminal record and is now charged with first-degree murder and federal offenses linked to the attack. He remains in custody.
A Family’s Grief
Iryna came to the U.S. in 2022 with her mother and siblings, fleeing the war in Kyiv. Her uncle, who first urged them to leave Ukraine, described her as a determined young woman who wanted nothing more than to live the American Dream.
Her father, still in Ukraine, could not attend her funeral due to the ongoing war but joined via video call. The family chose to bury her in North Carolina, a place she had come to love deeply.
Her obituary remembered her for her creativity, love of animals, and the joy she brought to everyone she met. “Her absence leaves a deep void, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.”
The Ongoing Case
Federal and state officials have vowed to ensure justice is served. U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson said the attack was “not only a tragedy for Iryna and her family, but also a threat to every American who relies on public transportation.”
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department continues to investigate, asking anyone with information to contact their Homicide Unit.
