What began as a routine evening commute on Charlotte’s light rail system turned into a tragedy that shook an entire community. On August 22, 2025, 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska lost her life in a violent attack aboard a Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) train.
Authorities later confirmed that the suspect, 27-year-old Decarlos Brown, was taken into custody at the East/West Boulevard Station and charged with first-degree murder. Brown, who had prior offenses and a history of mental health challenges, was permanently banned from all CATS services. The incident has sparked difficult conversations about public safety, prevention, and how best to protect vulnerable communities.
A City in Mourning
The release of surveillance footage documenting the attack led to an outpouring of grief and anger across Charlotte and beyond. City leaders, including Mayor Vi Lyles, expressed condolences to the Zarutska family and praised local outlets and residents for choosing not to share the graphic images, calling it an act of compassion and respect.
Even national leaders weighed in. President Donald Trump condemned the killing, describing it as a “senseless tragedy” and extending his support to Iryna’s family.
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