UPDATE: In a shocking incident on the Blue Line train, Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, was fatally stabbed just moments after boarding at Scaleybark station in Charlotte. The attack occurred around 10:30 PM on October 12, 2023, as she sat unaware of the danger behind her.
Witnesses report that within four minutes of boarding, Decarlos Brown, a man with a lengthy criminal history, attacked Zarutska with a knife. Passengers attempted to assist her as she succumbed to her injuries on the train. Brown has since been charged with first-degree murder.
This devastating event has ignited intense discussions about crime and mental health in America. Following the release of video footage showing the attack, conservative figures, including the Trump administration, have condemned the incident as indicative of rising violence in Democrat-led cities. President Trump took to social media, labeling Brown a “career criminal” and calling for increased law enforcement measures.
Zarutska, who fled Ukraine in August 2022 to escape the war, had been building a new life in Charlotte. Her family described her as an artist with aspirations to become a veterinary assistant. She embraced her new community, often caring for neighbors’ pets and attending Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Tragically, her quest for safety ended in violence she sought to escape.
Brown, who is currently homeless and has a history of mental health struggles, was released from prison in 2020 after serving time for robbery with a dangerous weapon. His family claims he faced systemic failures in accessing mental health care, which contributed to his actions that night. According to his sister, Tracey Brown, her brother had exhibited signs of severe mental distress, including hallucinations and paranoia.
In the days leading up to the stabbing, Brown had been living at a local shelter and had been dropped off by his mother just hours before the attack. She expressed disbelief upon learning of his involvement in the stabbing, emphasizing her struggles to get him the help he needed.
The attack has become a focal point for discussions on public safety and mental health reform. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and the victim’s family are calling for a closer examination of the systems that allowed Brown to remain in the community despite his mental health issues and criminal record.
As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of Zarutska, whose life was tragically cut short. Family friend Lonnie expressed the collective sorrow, stating, “It’s very, very sickening and sad that we have such evil in our society today.”
Authorities are urging residents to reflect on the case’s implications for public safety and mental health support as they seek justice for Zarutska and accountability for systemic failures that allowed such a tragic event to occur.
As the story develops, many are watching closely for further updates on this heartbreaking incident that has reverberated through the Charlotte community and beyond.