Warning: This article contains content that some readers may find distressing.
In Charlotte, North Carolina, train surveillance footage reveals the moments leading up to a random attack on a passenger, Iryna Zarutska, by suspect Decarlos Brown Jr.
Zarutska, a 23-year-old refugee, was tragically killed on August 22 after fleeing the conflict in Ukraine with her family.
Police apprehended Brown shortly after the incident, as they were stationed at the next stop on the train’s route.
To provide clarity on what occurred, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) released video footage showing Brown seated by the train window, his red hoodie pulled up over his head.
Brown’s behavior appears mostly calm as he leans on his hand and occasionally moves his head slightly.
Upon the train stopping at another station, Zarutska entered the CATS Blue Line with headphones on and sat in the row ahead of Brown. She did not interact with him and focused on her phone.
Moments later, Brown seemed to reach into his pocket.
After the attack on Zarutska, Brown walked to the opposite end of the train, removed his hoodie, while passengers attempted to assist Zarutska, remembered as a talented artist and animal enthusiast, according to ABC 11.
On August 23, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department named Brown as a suspect in the case. He has a record of criminal behavior and mental health problems.
The statement from the department noted: “Brown was transported to Atrium Health with non-life-threatening injuries sustained at the time of the incident. Brown will be arrested upon his release. He is charged with First Degree Murder…
“Ms. Zarutska’s next of kin has been notified of her death and of this case update. The investigation into this case is active and ongoing.”
Brown faced court on August 29, where he was denied bond and ordered to undergo a competency evaluation.
On September 7, when questioned about the attack, Donald Trump referred to it as ‘horrible’.
Following the release of the surveillance video, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles issued a statement: “The video of the heartbreaking attack that took Iryna Zarutska’s life is now public. I want to thank our media partners and community members who have chosen not to repost or share the footage out of respect for Iryna’s family.
“This was a senseless and tragic loss. My prayers remain with her loved ones as they continue to grieve through an unimaginable time. Like so many of you, I’m heartbroken – and I’ve been thinking hard about what safety really looks like in our city. I remain committed to doing all we can to protect our residents and ensure Charlotte is a place where everyone feels safe.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 to reach a 24-hour crisis center or you can webchat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.