Charlotte, North Carolina, October 8, 2025
News Summary
A tragic incident unfolded on a light rail train in Charlotte, resulting in the stabbing death of a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee. Multiple 911 calls reveal the chaos and horror experienced by witnesses as they reported the scene and the severity of the victim’s injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, the victim was pronounced dead shortly after the attack. The assailant has been apprehended and faces murder charges, raising alarm about safety in public transportation systems.
Charlotte, North Carolina – On August 22, 2025, a tragic incident on a light rail train led to the stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has since released audio from five 911 calls that were made in the chaotic moments following the attack.
One caller, amidst muffled sobs, described the horror of witnessing the act, exclaiming that a man had stabbed Zarutska “for no reason.” Another caller, unsure of their exact location, detailed the urgency of the scene, reporting a woman on the ground who was losing a significant amount of blood. Several callers voiced their panic, with one stating, “I think she’s dead,” while another noted the large pool of blood surrounding the victim.
Zarutska suffered multiple stab wounds to her throat, one of which severed her carotid artery. Emergency responders arrived and provided immediate medical attention, but despite their efforts, Zarutska was pronounced dead at 10:05 p.m.
The assailant, identified as 34-year-old Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr., was apprehended at the outbound platform shortly after the incident. Brown matched the description provided by witnesses and was found with a cut on his right hand. A folding knife was later recovered from the area near the platform, likely used in the stabbing. Authorities have charged Brown with first-degree murder in connection with Zarutska’s death, as well as a federal charge for committing an act causing death on a mass transportation system.
FBI Special Agent James C. Barnacle Jr. expressed his hope that the charges brought against Brown would facilitate justice for Zarutska’s family during this difficult time. The incident has ignited discussions regarding public safety on transportation systems, prompting authorities to emphasize that everyone should feel safe while using public transport for any purpose, be it work, school, or travel.
This shocking act of violence has raised alarms within the community and has drawn attention to safety measures in place on public transportation. Local officials are urging riders to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity, assuring the public that their safety is a priority.
Currently, Zarutska’s tragic death serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers faced by individuals utilizing public transport systems, especially in light of ongoing concerns about overall safety in these environments.
Key Details of the Incident
- Incident Date: August 22, 2025
- Victim: Iryna Zarutska, 23, Ukrainian refugee
- Assailant: Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr., 34
- Charges: First-degree murder, federal charge for death on a mass transportation system
- Key Finding: Multiple stab wounds, including one to the carotid artery
- Time of Death: 10:05 p.m. on the same day of the incident
Background Context
Iryna Zarutska fled to the United States to escape war in Ukraine, seeking safety and a new life in North Carolina. Her untimely death has not only impacted her family but has also raised critical questions surrounding the safety of public transportation systems. Authorities are undertaking measures to review safety protocols to better protect passengers against similar incidents in the future.
FAQ Section
What happened to Iryna Zarutska?
Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, was fatally stabbed on a light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on August 22, 2025.
What charges has Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr. faced?
Brown faces charges of first-degree murder and a federal charge for committing an act causing death on a mass transportation system.
How did the public react to Zarutska’s death?
The incident has raised concerns over public safety on transportation systems and has prompted local authorities to emphasize that everyone should feel safe while using public transportation.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim Name | Iryna Zarutska |
| Age | 23 |
| Incident Type | Stabbing |
| Location | Light Rail Train, Charlotte |
| Assailant Name | Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr. |
| Charges Against Assailant | First-degree murder, federal charge |
| Date of Incident | August 22, 2025 |
| Time of Death | 10:05 p.m. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Stabbing Incident on Charlotte Transit System
Tragic Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee Sparks National Debate
Charlotte Police Union Seeks National Guard Amid Crime Surge
Governor Signs Iryna’s Law Amid Controversy in Charlotte
Charlotte Transit Enhances Security Following Stabbing Incident
Mayor Lyles Rejects National Guard Request Amid Crime Concerns
Charlotte Leaders Reject National Guard Deployment Amid Crime Surge
Tragic Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee on Charlotte Light Rail
Teenager Shot and Killed Outside Target in Charlotte
Tragic Shooting Claims Young Life in Charlotte Shopping Center
Additional Resources
- WCNC: Investigation Near Devonshire Elementary
- WBTV: Man Accused of Stabbing Another Man to Death
- WCNC: Charlotte Leaders Seek State Reform After Deadly Light Rail Stabbing
- Fox News: Charlotte Train Stabbing 911 Audio Released
- Wikipedia: Public Transport Safety
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
