Ukrainian Refugee Killed in Charlotte Knife Attack by Repeat Offender

Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who fled the war in Ukraine seeking safety and a new life in the United States, was fatally stabbed at a light rail station in Charlotte, North Carolina. The attack occurred at the East/West Boulevard station in the South End neighborhood, where she sustained multiple stab wounds and died at the scene. The suspect, Decarlos Brown Jr., a 34-year-old homeless man with an extensive criminal history including robbery and violent offenses, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Brown had recent interactions with police related to mental health concerns, including claims of a 'man-made' substance implanted in his body, highlighting possible prior mental health issues. Authorities have not yet disclosed details about the motive or circumstances leading to the stabbing, and the investigation remains ongoing. Zarutska's death has deeply affected her family and Charlotte's Ukrainian community, underscoring concerns about public safety on local transit.