Man Charged in Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee on Light Rail in Charlotte

A man has been charged in the fatal stabbing of a Ukrainian refugee on a light rail train in Charlotte. According to Mecklenburg Superior Court records, Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr. faces a first-degree murder charge in the death of Iryna Zarutska.

Prosecutors claim that on August 22, 2025, Brown intentionally killed Zarutska in what has been characterized as a random act of violence. The indictment states that the crime was “malicious intent,” a term used in North Carolina law to indicate deliberate wrongdoing.

The judge returned the indictment last week, determining there was sufficient evidence to proceed with the case. Brown’s next hearing is set for October 16. If he is found guilty, he could face either a life sentence or the death penalty, depending on the decisions made by the prosecutors.

Witnesses, including multiple officers from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, were listed in the indictment, highlighting the breadth of the investigation. Reports indicate that surveillance footage captured the incident, and it has come to light that Brown has a lengthy criminal history, with 14 prior arrests over the past 12 years and known mental health issues.

Brown has been ordered to undergo a 60-day mental health evaluation at a local hospital to determine if he is competent to stand trial, given concerns over his mental state.

Zarutska had fled Ukraine due to the war and was working at a local pizzeria while studying English at Charlotte Community College. She was attacked near Camden Light Rail Station on her way home from work.

In a heartfelt statement released through her lawyer, Zarutska’s family described her as a “kind and hardworking young woman” who was dearly loved. They expressed profound grief over her unexpected loss and insisted that the individual responsible for her death should remain in custody.

“We are heartbroken beyond words. Iryna came here seeking peace and safety, but her life was brutally taken,” they said. Their focus now is on pursuing justice for Iryna, highlighting what they see as a larger issue of safety in public spaces.

After her murder, police reports uncovered several related incidents near the light rail system. Just two days following Zarutska’s death, another individual reported an attack by a suspect, and further incidents involving violence and thefts around the light rail were documented.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles has addressed the community’s safety concerns, assuring that city officials are actively working to improve security measures. She noted the addition of 30 new security officers to enhance safety on the transit system.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi remarked at a recent press conference that the nature of Brown’s crime has prompted prosecutors to keep all legal options open, including the potential for the death penalty. “This young woman suffered a horrific death, captured on video. We will prosecute and make a determination regarding the death penalty as the case progresses,” she stated.

The determination on whether to pursue the death penalty will come later in the legal process.