Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, was fatally stabbed on the Lynx Blue Line light rail in Charlotte, North Carolina, on August 22, 2025, while seated on the train at the East/West Boulevard station.2 She was born on May 22, 2002, in Kyiv, Ukraine, and had emigrated to the United States in August 2022 with her mother, sister, and brother to escape the Russian invasion.2 She was studying art and restoration at Synergy College in Kyiv before relocating and later enrolled in college classes and worked at a pizzeria in Charlotte’s Lower South End.2

The suspect, 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr., was arrested on the platform at East/West Boulevard station shortly after the attack and charged with first-degree murder in North Carolina state court and with committing an act causing death on a mass-transportation system in federal court.2 Surveillance footage captured Brown stabbing Zarutska three times from behind, including a fatal wound to the neck, and he reportedly said, "I got that white girl," after the attack.2 Brown had a history of 14 arrests in Mecklenburg County, including convictions for armed robbery and breaking and entering, and was diagnosed with schizophrenia after his release from prison in 2020; his mother had sought involuntary commitment, which was denied due to legal barriers.2

The killing drew widespread national and international attention, prompting statements from Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, and former President Donald Trump, who called for the death penalty.25 In response, North Carolina passed House Bill 307, known as "Iryna’s Law," which removed legal barriers to the use of capital punishment and was signed into law by Governor Stein in October 2025.35 The case also sparked debates about mental health care access, transit security, and fare enforcement.2

Zarutska is remembered as a gifted artist, a compassionate animal lover, and a determined young woman who quickly learned English and worked toward independence, including learning to drive.2 She is survived by her parents, Anna and Stanislav; her sister Valeriia; her brother Bohdan; her life partner Stas Nikulytsia; and extended family.2 A memorial contribution program was established in her honor, and her family continues to advocate for justice and systemic reform.2