In an online obituary, Ms Zarutska’s family wrote that she fled the war in Ukraine along with her mother and siblings in 2022, and had “quickly embraced her new life in the United States”.
It said she was a “gifted and passionate artist”, loved animals, and was “happiest when surrounded by family and loved ones”.
“Her absence leaves a deep void, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her”.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein said he was “appalled” by the footage of Ms Zarutska’s killing.
“We need more cops on the beat to keep people safe,” the Democratic governor said on X, and called for the state legislature to pass a law enforcement package to “address vacancies in our state and local agencies so they can stop these horrific crimes and hold violent criminals accountable”.
Republicans and right-wing commentators have raised questions about the role of the judicial system in the incident, including why Brown was free despite reportedly having an extensive criminal record.
He was convicted of armed robbery, felony larceny and break and enter, according to records obtained by CNN, and spent eight years in jail for robbery with a dangerous weapon. He also suffers from mental health issues and is homeless, according to media reports.
In her statement, Mayor Lyles said that a solution is needed “to address repeated offenders who do not face consequences for their actions and those who cannot get treatment for their mental illness and are allowed to be on the streets”.