Charlotte, North Carolina, December 10, 2025
A recent stabbing on Charlotte’s light rail has heightened concerns about public safety and immigration enforcement. Oscar Solarzano was charged with attempted murder after attacking Kenyon Dobie during an altercation. The incident has reignited discussions around community safety and immigration policies, especially following the death of a Ukrainian refugee in a previous attack. Increasing federal immigration actions in the wake of this incident have raised alarms about racial profiling and civil rights implications within the community.
Charlotte, North Carolina: Recent Light Rail Stabbing Raises Safety and Immigration Concerns
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A recent stabbing on Charlotte’s light rail system has intensified discussions about public transit safety and immigration enforcement. On December 5, 2025, a 33-year-old man, Oscar Solarzano, was charged with attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly stabbing 24-year-old Kenyon Kareem Dobie during an altercation on the Blue Line. The victim remains in critical but stable condition. Solarzano, who is in the U.S. illegally and had been previously deported, is currently held without bond, with a court appearance scheduled for December 30.
Details of the Incident
The stabbing occurred when Dobie confronted Solarzano for allegedly yelling at an elderly woman. During the confrontation, Solarzano stabbed Dobie in the chest. Court documents revealed that Solarzano had been banned from Charlotte Area Transit Service (CATS) property in October. The Department of Homeland Security has lodged a detainer against him, citing his previous deportations and criminal history, which includes convictions for robbery and illegal reentry.
Background Context
This incident represents the second stabbing on Charlotte’s light rail system since August. The earlier attack resulted in the death of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, prompting the enactment of “Iryna’s Law.” This legislation aims to tighten bail restrictions for certain violent and repeat offenders. However, Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden has expressed concerns that the law could exacerbate jail overcrowding without providing additional resources.
The stabbing has also drawn national attention, including comments from political leaders who criticized the crime policies in cities governed by progressive administrations. In response, city officials have emphasized their commitment to public safety, citing increased transit security measures such as enhanced police presence and new technologies.
Recent Developments in Immigration Enforcement
In the wake of the stabbing, federal immigration enforcement has intensified in Charlotte. On November 15, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested at least 81 individuals on the first day of an immigration crackdown, marking a significant escalation in federal deportation initiatives. Local leaders have voiced concerns over the implications of such operations, citing potential issues of racial profiling and aggressive tactics.
Community Response
The community remains divided over the balance between public safety and immigration enforcement. While some advocate for stricter immigration policies aimed at preventing crime, others express valid concerns regarding civil rights and the implications for immigrant communities. Ongoing discussions seek to find a middle ground that enhances safety while addressing the complexities of immigration enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in the recent Charlotte light rail stabbing?
On December 5, 2025, Oscar Solarzano was charged with attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly stabbing 24-year-old Kenyon Kareem Dobie during an altercation on the Blue Line. The victim remains in critical but stable condition.
What is “Iryna’s Law”?
“Iryna’s Law” is legislation enacted following the fatal stabbing of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska in August 2025. The law aims to tighten bail restrictions for certain violent and repeat offenders.
How has the federal government responded to the stabbing?
Following the stabbing, federal immigration enforcement has intensified in Charlotte. On November 15, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested at least 81 individuals on the first day of an immigration crackdown, marking a significant escalation in the Trump administration’s mass deportation initiative.
What are the community’s concerns regarding the incident?
The community remains divided over the balance between public safety and immigration enforcement. While some advocate for stricter immigration policies to prevent crime, others express concerns about potential civil rights violations and the impact on immigrant communities.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 5, 2025 |
| Location | Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Suspect | Oscar Solarzano, 33 |
| Victim | Kenyon Kareem Dobie, 24 |
| Charges | Attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon |
| Victim’s Condition | Critical but stable |
| Suspect’s Immigration Status | In the U.S. illegally, previously deported twice |
| Legislation Enacted | “Iryna’s Law” tightening bail restrictions |
| Federal Response | Intensified immigration enforcement, 81 arrests on November 15, 2025 |
| Community Concerns | Debate over balance between public safety and immigration enforcement |
Now Happening on X
- @CLT_GOP (December 6, 2025, 12:34 AM) Charlotte’s light rail faces another stabbing incident, with a previously deported illegal immigrant as the suspect, calling for stronger public safety measures. View on X
- @PrimeViewNews (December 6, 2025, 11:04 PM) Reports on the latest light rail stabbing in Charlotte, identifying the suspect as a previously deported illegal immigrant and highlighting ongoing transit safety concerns. View on X
- @pitbullpatriot3 (December 6, 2025, 11:24 PM) Discusses the recent stabbing on Charlotte’s light rail involving a suspect who is a previously deported illegal immigrant, emphasizing the need for immigration enforcement. View on X
- @FormerlyPipe (December 6, 2025, 12:11 AM) Points out the stabbing on Charlotte’s light rail by a previously deported illegal immigrant, urging stricter border policies to protect public safety in the city. View on X
- @JodyField (December 6, 2025, 1:30 AM) Shares news of another light rail stabbing in Charlotte, with the suspect identified as a previously deported illegal immigrant, raising questions about community safety. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Family Seeks Community Support in Finding Missing Mother
Stabbing Incident on Charlotte Commuter Train Raises Safety Concerns
Charlotte’s Light Rail Stabbing Fuels Debate on Safety and Immigration
Light Rail Stabbing in Charlotte Raises Safety Concerns
Record North Carolina Train Ridership Signals Growing Preference
Charlotte Brings Holiday Cheer with Festive Events
Stabbing Incident Raises Public Safety Concerns in Charlotte
Honduran Man Faces Attempted Murder Charges Following Train Stabbing
Charlotte’s Blue Line Incident Raises Safety Concerns
Duke University Clinches Historic ACC Football Championship
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.
