brutal footage captures the fatal stabbing of a Ukrainian woman aboard a train in Charlotte, North Carolina.
In a shocking incident that has left the community in mourning, a 23-year-old woman named Iryna Zarutska was fatally stabbed on a Charlotte train on August 22, 2025.
Iryna, who was living in Charlotte, was described as a gifted and passionate artist. She loved sculpting and designing clothing, and her radiant smile was a familiar sight in the neighborhood. Iryna was often seen caring for her neighbors' pets, a testament to her love for animals.
The incident occurred on the CATS Blue Line, a train en route to the East/West Boulevard Station, with many passengers on board. Decarlos Brown, a 34- to 35-year-old homeless man with a long criminal history and a diagnosed schizophrenia, is accused of the heinous act.
Decarlos pulled out a knife and stabbed Iryna, who was sitting in an aisle seat in front of him, unprovoked. After the attack, he walked to the other end of the train and removed his hoodie. The train stopped about two minutes later, and Decarlos was immediately arrested by Charlotte police.
Several passengers rushed to help Iryna, but tragically, she could not be saved. In her obituary, it was mentioned that Iryna dreamed of pursuing a career as a Veterinary Assistant.
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles expressed her condolences to Iryna's family and released a statement on the incident. She is committed to ensuring Charlotte is a safe place for residents. Decarlos Brown is facing first-degree murder charges, and CATS has banned him for life.
The video of the attack that took Iryna's life is now public, but some media partners and community members chose not to repost or share it out of respect for her family. Iryna had fled the war in Ukraine with her mother, sister, and brother, seeking a safer life in Charlotte.
This senseless act of violence has shaken the community, but the memory of Iryna Zarutska, a young woman with a bright future and a big heart, will live on.
