In a recent exchange at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, President Donald Trump expressed his reaction to the tragic incident involving Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, who was fatally stabbed on a train in Charlotte, North Carolina. The incident took place on August 22 while Zarutska, who had sought refuge from the conflict in Ukraine with her family, was seated on the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Blue Line.
Without any prior interaction, Decarlos Brown Jr. allegedly attacked Zarutska as she was engrossed in her phone and headphones, stabbing her in the neck. Following the attack, Brown moved away from the crime scene within the train carriage.
Brown was swiftly taken into custody by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and has been charged with first-degree murder. Zarutska, only 23 years old at the time of her death, was declared deceased at the scene. Brown’s criminal history and mental health issues have been noted, and during his initial court hearing on August 29, he was denied bail and mandated to undergo a competency assessment. On September 5, CATS released footage of the incident, attracting significant public attention.
During a press briefing on September 7, Trump was asked about the stabbing. He called the incident ‘horrible’ but admitted he was unaware of the details, saying, “I haven’t heard … when did this happen?” He then mentioned he would be briefed, stating, “I’ll know all about it by tomorrow morning.”
An image of Decarlos Brown Jr. was released in connection with the case.
Iryna Zarutska’s obituary highlights her as a ‘gifted and passionate artist’ who generously shared her art with loved ones. It mentions her aspirations to become a Veterinary Assistant and her joyful spirit when surrounded by family and friends.
Brown is expected to appear in court again on September 19.
For those needing support, Mental Health America offers assistance. Reach out by calling or texting 988 for a 24-hour crisis center or visit 988lifeline.org for webchat services. The Crisis Text Line is also available by texting MHA to 741741.