Mayor of Providence requests the removal of mural dedicated to Iryna Zarutska

Providence Mayor Calls for Removal of Mural Honoring Murdered Ukrainian Woman

The mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, has expressed the desire to remove a mural dedicated to Irina Zalutka, a Ukrainian woman who was tragically killed while on a train in North Carolina. This mural, located on the wall of The Dark Lady, an LGBTQ+ club in downtown Providence, is reportedly linked to support from Elon Musk.

According to WJAR-TV, the mural is still a work in progress.

Background on Irina Zalutka

Irina Zalutka, a 23-year-old refugee who fled Ukraine due to the Russian invasion, was fatally attacked in an unprovoked incident while riding on the Lynx Blue Line light rail in Charlotte last year. Her death has sparked significant discussion around crime and public safety policies.

Mayor Brett Smiley’s office has officially requested the artwork’s removal, stating, “While the murder of the person depicted in this mural is a devastating tragedy, the misguided and isolated intent of funding murals like those across the country is divisive and not representative of Providence.” Smiley emphasized the need for community support of local artists whose work fosters unity.

The artist behind the mural, Ian Gaudreau, mentioned he had no political intention while creating the tribute. Following news of the project and its purpose, Musk pledged $1 million in September 2025.

Details of the Crime

The suspect in Zalutka’s murder, DeCarlos Brown Jr., 34, faces capital murder charges, specifically for violence against railroad operators and mass transit systems, which could lead to a federal death penalty. Brown has a history of criminal activity, including convictions for theft and armed robbery, and served five years in prison starting in 2015.

Zalutka’s tragic murder has raised questions about the crime policies in Democratic cities. President Trump highlighted the incident during his recent State of the Union address, saying, “As Irina was riding home on the train, a deranged monster who had been arrested more than a dozen times and released on no-cash bail violently slashed her neck and body with a knife.” He expressed his commitment to seeking justice for Zalutka’s family, emphasizing her escape from war only to be a victim of violence in the U.S.