Charlotte, North Carolina, September 11, 2025
News Summary
A federal complaint has been filed against Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr., who is charged with first-degree murder following the fatal stabbing of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee. The incident occurred on August 22 on the Lynx Blue Light Line. Brown, with a lengthy criminal history and mental health issues, stabbed Zarutska from behind in a railcar. The case has garnered attention, highlighting concerns over public safety and mental health resources in Charlotte.
Charlotte, North Carolina – A federal criminal complaint has been filed against Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr., a 34-year-old man, following a fatal stabbing incident that occurred on August 22. The attack resulted in the death of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, on the Lynx Blue Light Line light rail.
The stabbing took place at approximately 9:55 PM in the 1800 block of Camden Road. Officers responded to reports of a stabbing and found Zarutska in a railcar, where a pocketknife was later recovered as evidence. Surveillance footage revealed that Zarutska entered the railcar and sat in front of Brown before the attack occurred. Just four minutes after sitting down, Brown stabbed Zarutska from behind and then exited the train, walking away from the scene. He was arrested on the platform shortly after by officers who responded to the incident.
Brown now faces a charge of first-degree murder, which carries a maximum statutory sentence of life in prison or the death penalty if convicted. Court records indicate that Brown has a lengthy criminal history, with 14 prior cases in Mecklenburg County dating back to 2011. His criminal record includes convictions for robbery with a dangerous weapon, breaking and entering, and making threats. Furthermore, Brown has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and has a documented history of mental health issues, including past involuntary commitment for treatment.
In a concerning twist, Brown was previously arrested in January 2025 for misusing 911, claiming that people were trying to control him. A judge released him without bail before the stabbing incident unfolded. The case has drawn attention from the FBI, which is collaborating with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Zarutska’s family revealed that she fled the war in Ukraine in 2022, seeking safety and a better life in the United States. Shortly after her arrival, she secured employment at a senior assisted living center, a pizzeria, and engaged in pet care within her neighborhood. During the tragic incident, she was in her work uniform, returning home after a shift.
Memorial tributes for Zarutska have emphasized her skills as an artist and her aspirations to become a veterinary assistant. Oddly, her family has chosen not to bring her body back to Ukraine, opting instead to bury her in the U.S. as a testament to her love for her new home.
The attack has sparked outrage among local officials, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, who has called for bipartisan solutions to improve public safety in the city. Former President Trump also responded to the tragedy, describing it as “horrible” and advocating for stricter law enforcement policies. Brown’s family expressed concerns over his deteriorating mental health, noting their attempts to seek help for him through involuntary commitment, which had unfortunately been unsuccessful.
The details of this case have raised significant discussions regarding the implications for public safety and the need for improved mental health resources in urban areas. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of Zarutska, a talented young woman who dreamt of a brighter future.
FAQ
What happened on August 22 in Charlotte, North Carolina?
Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr. was charged with first-degree murder after fatally stabbing Iryna Zarutska on the Lynx Blue Light Line light rail.
What is known about the victim, Iryna Zarutska?
Iryna Zarutska was a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who fled the war in Ukraine in 2022, seeking a new life in the U.S. She was employed at a senior assisted living center and had aspirations to become a veterinary assistant.
What were Decarlos Brown’s prior criminal charges?
Brown has a history of 14 prior cases in Mecklenburg County, including convictions for robbery with a dangerous weapon, breaking and entering, and making threats.
What is the current status of Decarlos Brown?
Brown is currently facing charges of first-degree murder, which could lead to life in prison or the death penalty if convicted. He has also been diagnosed with schizophrenia and has a history of mental health issues.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | August 22, 2022 |
| Location | Lynx Blue Light Line, Charlotte, NC |
| Victim | Iryna Zarutska, 23 |
| Suspect | Decarlos Dejuan Brown Jr., 34 |
| Charge | First-degree murder |
| Potential Sentencing | Life imprisonment or death penalty |
| Circumstances | Fatal stabbing involving a knife on public transport |
| Victim Background | Ukrainian refugee, worked in various local jobs |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragedy in Charlotte: Ukrainian Refugee Fatally Stabbed
Charlotte Struggles After Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee
Fatal Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee on Charlotte Light Rail
Man Charged in Stabbing Death of Ukrainian Refugee in Charlotte
Tragic Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee Sparks National Debate
Vi Lyles Secures Democratic Nomination for Charlotte Mayor
Murder of Ukrainian Refugee in Charlotte Sparks Debate
North Carolina Man Faces Charges for Stabbing Ukrainian Refugee
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles Wins Democratic Primary
Parents Arrested for Bringing Weapons to High School
Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Iryna Zarutska
- WBTV
- Google Search: Charlotte stabbing Iryna Zarutska
- Fox News
- Google Scholar: Iryna Zarutska stabbing
- ABC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public safety
- CNN
- Google News: Iryna Zarutska case
Author: HERE Charlotte
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