A Ukrainian woman who left her home country to escape the ongoing conflict was tragically stabbed to death in Charlotte on Friday, according to local police. The victim has been identified as 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska.
In the wake of her passing, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to support Zarutska’s family, which has already gathered over $12,000. The campaign’s message reflects the heartbreak felt by her loved ones, stating, “Dear friend, our Valeria is suffering from a terrible tragedy.”
The incident occurred at the East/West Boulevard Light Rail Station, a busy area near Camden Road. Police report that Zarutska was stabbed around 10:30 PM, and officers found her at the scene, where she sadly succumbed to her injuries.
Reports indicate that Zarutska had only recently arrived in the United States, seeking a fresh start and safety from the war back home. A community member mentioned, “Yesterday, her 22-year-old Nie Ira was killed. She wanted security after the turmoil.” The GoFundMe campaign, organized on behalf of her Ukrainian aunt Valeria, has garnered significant local support, indicating how much she was valued in the community.
DeCarlos Brown, a 34-year-old man, was arrested shortly after the incident and has since been hospitalized. He faces charges of first-degree murder, though police have not provided specific details regarding the events leading up to the stabbing. Records show that Brown has a lengthy history of arrests dating back to 2011, reflecting serious past crimes such as felony theft and robbery.
Zarutska’s death has heightened concerns about public safety in Charlotte, particularly regarding violence within the city’s transportation systems. During a city council meeting, a council member raised the question, “What immediate measures will be taken to ensure the safety of riders and restore confidence in the system?”
