Charlotte light rail tragedy claims life of Ukrainian refugee as surveillance shows shocking stabbing incident

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Authorities released disturbing surveillance footage showing the fatal stabbing of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska aboard a Charlotte light rail train, intensifying concerns about safety on public transportation and the danger posed by repeat violent offenders. The incident occurred August 22 on the Lynx Blue Line.

The newly released video captured multiple synchronized camera angles from inside the train. In the footage, the suspect, identified as 35-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr., can be seen sitting directly behind Zarutska. Moments later, he unfolded a pocketknife and launched a sudden, unprovoked attack.

Zarutska was reportedly using her phone and unaware of any danger when the stabbing occurred. Passengers around her were left in shock, with many not immediately realizing the seriousness of the attack. The tragedy unfolded in a matter of seconds, leaving little opportunity for intervention.

After the stabbing, Brown was seen casually walking through the train while still holding the weapon, leaving visible blood on the floor. Surveillance also shows him removing his bloody hoodie and calmly waiting for the train to stop before exiting, further horrifying investigators who reviewed the footage.

Witnesses at the scene appeared initially confused, with some not grasping the severity of what had happened until later. Zarutska collapsed onboard the train and was later pronounced dead, marking a devastating end to what had begun as an ordinary commute for the young refugee.

Authorities emphasized that Zarutska was wearing her uniform from Zepeddie’s Pizza at the time of the attack, where she had been working. Friends and colleagues described her as hardworking, kind, and dedicated, highlighting the tragedy of her life being cut short so suddenly and violently.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage in Charlotte, with community leaders and transit riders demanding stronger measures to protect passengers. Calls for increased security patrols, better surveillance, and stricter measures to keep repeat offenders away from public spaces have grown louder in the wake of the tragedy.

Law enforcement officials stressed that Brown has a criminal history and should never have been in a position to commit such an act. His calm demeanor in the footage, both during and after the attack, underscored the seriousness of concerns about repeat violent offenders and systemic failures in public safety.

Transit authorities pledged to review security measures on the Lynx Blue Line and other routes, noting that rider safety is now under sharper scrutiny. Advocates are urging investments in mental health resources and law enforcement cooperation to prevent similar tragedies from happening again.

As the investigation continues, Charlotte residents mourn the loss of Zarutska, whose journey as a refugee represented resilience and hope. Her death has left a profound impact on the community, sparking grief, anger, and urgent conversations about how to better protect vulnerable individuals in public spaces.