23 year old female Iryna Zarutska was killed on the subway in Charlotte, NC on August 22, 2025. Zarutska was from Ukraine, and eventually fled in 2022 due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Along with her mother and siblings, she hoped to create a new life here in the U.S.

Decarlos Brown, 34, was said to have been a primary suspect for the crime. Brown is currently being held at Mecklenburg County Jail and could be charged with first-degree murder. If convicted, he faces the possibility of the death sentence or life in prison. 

      “The brutal attack on Iryna Zarutska on the Charlotte Light Rail was a disgraceful act that should never happen in America,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. 

Surveillance footage shows Brown sitting behind her just moments before she was assaulted, footage also shows Brown committing the violent crime. Brown was arrested on the platform shortly after. Brown has a criminal record, including prior arrests from 2020. Many are questioning why Brown was able to walk freely considering his past crimes. 

     “I have directed my attorneys to federally prosecute DeCarlos Brown Jr., a repeat violent offender with a history of violent crime, for murder. We will seek the maximum penalty for this unforgivable act of violence — he will never again see the light of day as a free man.”- Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

Investigators  are still trying to uncover the possible motive behind this act. This investigation is still in effect and officials are looking to the public for any additional information. 

A vigil for the victim is being held at the LYNX East/West Blvd station on September 22 at 8 PM. Many people have already created something of a memorial at the station where this incident took place. Charlotte’s Mayor, Vi Lyles, has publicly committed to improving transparency and communication in response to the publics opinions. Lyles has also acknowledged mistakes surrounding the safety in public transit, and pledged to address the transit safety concerns.

      Many local citizens are worried about the safety of local transportation after this occurrence. Due to this spark in concern, there has since been a security review of the Lynx system that is in place.  

Sources:

Woman-stabbed-on-train-north-carolina-gop-leaders

https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-charges-light-rail-attacker-federal-crime