Charlotte, NC, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Rapper DaBaby has sparked controversy with his music video ‘Save Me,’ dedicated to Iryna Zarutska, who was fatally stabbed in Charlotte. The video reenacts the tragic incident, raising discussions about violence in media. Despite mixed reactions, it emphasizes community support for Zarutska’s family, reflected in a GoFundMe campaign that has raised significant funds. The video was filmed without permission on a light rail train, leading to criticism over its portrayal of real-life tragedy.
Charlotte, North Carolina—Rapper Jonathan “DaBaby” Kirk, known for his provocative style, has released a controversial music video titled “Save Me,” dedicated to Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian woman who was tragically fatally stabbed on the Charlotte light rail on August 22, 2025. The song was released on September 16, 2025, and has ignited heated discussions regarding the representation of real-life violence in media.
The music video begins by presenting security footage of the stabbing incident, formatted as a local newscast that captures Zarutska boarding a Lynx Blue Line light rail car just before the attack. In the footage, the alleged attacker, Decarlos Brown Jr., is seen pulling out a knife, and the graphic display abruptly halts as DaBaby’s music begins. The video then reenacts the stabbing, with actors KenDarius “Too” Hargrove portraying the attacker and Natalie Jones acting as Zarutska.
A notable aspect of the video is its alternate ending, where DaBaby intervenes to stop the stabbing and leads the attacker away from the train. Additionally, a screenshot of a GoFundMe account for Zarutska’s memorial appears in the video. The fundraiser has reportedly raised over $434,500, highlighting the significant community support for Zarutska’s family.
Iryna Zarutska was a Ukrainian college graduate who fled from the ravages of war in her home country. At the time of her death, she was balancing three jobs in the United States in an effort to build a better life. Following the stabbing, Decarlos Brown Jr. was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, and he faces additional federal charges related to the incident. Legal proceedings revealed that a judge mandated a competency hearing for Brown, linked to previous mental health concerns, suggesting he believed a “man-made” material was exerting control over him.
Municipal officials have confirmed that DaBaby’s video was filmed on an actual light rail train without permission. Following complaints received via the CATS-Pass app, security personnel intervened and escorted the film crew off the vehicle. The incident has drawn ire from various quarters, with many criticizing DaBaby’s choice to reenact a real-life tragedy that had a profound impact on the community.
In the wake of Zarutska’s death, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) faced considerable scrutiny regarding safety protocols on the light rail. In response, Charlotte Mayor Lyles has advocated for increased safety measures to protect passengers. No clear motive for the attack has been articulated, raising concerns about mental health evaluations and public safety policies.
DaBaby, whose past controversies include violent incidents and a noted homophobic rant in 2021, has received mixed responses to his works. “Save Me” continues to exhibit themes questioning the potential for personal salvation and illustrates the artist’s internal struggles with morality, adding layers to the conversation surrounding the music video.
The release of “Save Me” serves as a reminder of both the power of media to reflect societal issues and the sensitive nature of portraying real-life tragedies.
FAQs
Who is Iryna Zarutska?
Iryna Zarutska was a 23-year-old Ukrainian woman who was fatally stabbed on the Charlotte light rail on August 22, 2025. At the time of her death, she was working three jobs in the U.S.
What is the music video “Save Me” about?
The music video serves as a dedication to Iryna Zarutska, exploring themes of morality and whether individuals can be saved, while reenacting the fatal stabbing incident.
What has been the public reaction to DaBaby’s video?
Many have criticized DaBaby’s music video due to its sensitive subject matter, specifically the reenactment of real-life tragedy, while others are drawn to the themes of personal salvation.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 16, 2025 |
| Dedication | Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee |
| Incident Date | August 22, 2025 |
| Charge against Attacker | First-degree murder |
| GoFundMe Amount Raised | Over $434,500 |
| Mayor’s Response | Called for increased safety measures on light rail |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
DaBaby Releases Controversial Music Video Tribute
Additional Resources
- WBTV
- Wikipedia: Charlotte Light Rail
- WSOC TV
- Google Search: DaBaby Save Me music video
- New York Post
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- Hindustan Times
- Google News: Iryna Zarutska
Author: HERE Charlotte
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