Charlotte, NC, September 23, 2025
News Summary
A candlelight vigil was held for Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee murdered on Charlotte’s light rail. The event marked 30 days since her tragic death and drew hundreds of attendees. The community expressed their outrage and support for a proposed legislation known as ‘Iryna’s Law,’ aimed at strengthening measures against violent crime. Attendees requested increased police presence on public transport and discussed plans to rename the East/West Boulevard Rail Station in her honor.
Charlotte
A candlelight vigil was held on Monday night for Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee murdered on a Charlotte light rail. The vigil took place at the East/West Boulevard Rail Station in South End, the location of her death, marking 30 days since Zarutska was killed.
Zarutska was attacked on Friday, August 22, shortly after sitting in front of the assailant on the light rail. The man accused of the murder is 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr., who was charged with murder on Thursday, August 28. An affidavit revealed that Brown allegedly stabbed Zarutska in the throat. Surveillance video showed her boarding the train and sitting directly in front of Brown shortly before the attack.
The train journey lasted approximately four and a half minutes before the stabbing occurred. Brown allegedly pulled out a knife, unfolded it, and stabbed Zarutska three times, with at least one stab to the middle of her throat. Authorities believe there was no prior interaction between Zarutska and Brown on the train.
The vigil drew hundreds of attendees, with people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to honor Zarutska’s memory. Many attendees traveled from outside of Charlotte, including out-of-state visitors. Attendees expressed that the vigil was an important step in uniting the community after the tragedy.
On the same day as the vigil, North Carolina legislators advanced a new bill known as “Iryna’s Law.” This law aims to eliminate cashless bail for violent and repeat offenders, accelerate the death penalty process, and reinstate firing squads and hanging. In the aftermath of the incident, local residents expressed support for increased police presence on the train.
Vigil organizers announced plans to petition for the East/West Boulevard Station to be renamed in honor of Iryna Zarutska.
Key Details of the Incident
- Date: August 22
- Victim: Iryna Zarutska
- Age of Victim: 23
- Location: East/West Boulevard Rail Station
- Suspect: Decarlos Brown Jr.
- Nature of Attack: Stabbing
- Charges: Murder
- Legislative Response: “Iryna’s Law”
Community Response
- Type of Gathering: Candlelight Vigil
- Attendance: Hundreds
- Purpose: Honor Zarutska’s memory
- Local Support: Increased police presence on trains requested
- Petition: Rename East/West Boulevard Station
Background Context
Iryna Zarutska was a Ukrainian refugee seeking safety when her life was tragically cut short. Her murder has sparked community outrage and calls for legislative change. “Iryna’s Law” aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding violent crime and ensure more stringent measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.
FAQ
When was the candlelight vigil for Iryna Zarutska held?
The candlelight vigil was held on Monday night, marking 30 days since Zarutska was killed.
Who was accused of Iryna Zarutska’s murder?
The man accused of the murder is 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr., who was charged with murder on Thursday, August 28.
What was “Iryna’s Law” introduced to address?
“Iryna’s Law” aims to eliminate cashless bail for violent and repeat offenders, accelerate the death penalty process, and reinstate firing squads and hanging.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | August 22 |
| Victim | Iryna Zarutska |
| Age | 23 |
| Suspect | Decarlos Brown Jr. |
| Attendees at Vigil | Hundreds |
| Legislation Proposed | Iryna’s Law |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Fatal Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee in Charlotte
Trump Calls for Death Penalty in Charlotte Stabbing Case
Political Fallout Following the Stabbing Death of a Ukrainian Refugee
Fatal Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee on Charlotte Light Rail
Additional Resources
- WBTV
- Wikipedia: Candlelight vigil
- WBRC
- Google Search: Ukrainian refugees
- NBC 15
- Google Scholar: Iryna Zarutska
- AP News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte
- WBTV
- Google News: Charlotte vigil
Author: HERE Charlotte
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