The family of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, is speaking out after she was fatally stabbed on a light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina, last month.
The brutal murder, captured on surveillance footage, has left her family devastated and demanding justice for the young woman whose life was taken in a senseless attack.
Zarutska’s life was ended by 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr., a repeat offender with a history of mental health issues. The incident, which occurred in late August 2025, has sparked outrage as her family calls attention to the broader issues of public safety and systemic failures in the local justice system.
In a statement released on Tuesday, a spokesperson for Zarutska's family expressed their profound grief. “We are heartbroken beyond words. Iryna came here to find peace and safety, and instead her life was stolen from her in the most horrific way,” they said, per WSOC-9. “No family should have to go through this.”
Brown, who has been arrested 14 times prior to the murder, was released from jail earlier this year under questionable conditions. Despite his history of criminal behavior and known struggles with schizophrenia, a magistrate judge set his release terms so lax that he was able to walk free in January. Zarutska’s relatives believe the tragedy could have been avoided had authorities acted differently.
Jeremiah Brown, Decarlos's brother, also spoke about the tragedy and his belief that the murder might have been prevented. “I think they could have pretty much prevented it then,” he said, referring to the judge’s decision to release Decarlos despite his extensive criminal record. “I hope they get the support they need,” Jeremiah added, expressing sympathy for the victim's family while also calling for accountability.
The shocking footage of the attack shows Brown sitting behind Zarutska for several minutes before standing up, unsheathing a knife, and stabbing her multiple times. The brutality of the murder has left the Charlotte community reeling. “He could do it again,” Jeremiah warned, emphasizing that although his brother needs treatment for his mental health issues, there must be consequences for his actions. “I think he should suffer the consequences.”
The family is also urging the public and the media to respect Zarutska's dignity by refraining from sharing the graphic footage of her death, which has been circulating online.
In addition to local charges, Decarlos Brown Jr. now faces federal charges related to the murder, as he committed the crime on a mass transportation system. The Justice Department filed the charges on Tuesday, adding another layer to the case as authorities seek to hold him accountable for his actions.
This tragic incident has drawn attention to larger issues within the local justice system, with critics pointing to the lenient release of repeat offenders as a contributing factor. As the investigation continues, Zarutska’s family is determined to see justice served and to bring attention to the flaws that allowed this tragedy to unfold.