A 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who fled the war in her home country was fatally stabbed by a homeless career criminal in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Friday night.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department confirmed that Iryna Zarutska, 23, died after suffering multiple stab wounds at the East/West Boulevard light rail station around 10 p.m.
Police have not specified whether the stabbing occurred on the train, the platform, or nearby.
Suspect Arrested
Authorities identified Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, as the suspect in Zarutska’s death. Brown, who is homeless, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder.
Court records obtained by the New York Post show Brown has a lengthy criminal history dating back to 2011, including arrests for felony larceny, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and communicating threats. He previously served five years in prison for the robbery charge.
At the time of Zarutska’s killing, he was also facing charges for allegedly misusing the 911 system.
According to an affidavit reviewed by the Charlotte Observer, Brown claimed he suffered from mental health issues. In one report, he told officers that a “man-made” material controlled his life, including his ability to eat, walk, and talk.
Community Response
Zarutska had recently come to the United States seeking safety as Russia continues its war against Ukraine.
Family members have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her immediate family with funeral and related expenses.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not released a motive in the stabbing. The investigation remains active.
