Warning: This article contains content that may be distressing to some readers.
The family of Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee who was tragically stabbed to death on a train in Charlotte, North Carolina, have spoken out about their loss.
Iryna Zarutska was the victim of an apparently random attack on August 22. Decarlos Brown Jr. was apprehended shortly after the incident when police intercepted him at the next train stop.
Zarutska, who had fled the conflict in Ukraine with her family, including her mother, sister, and brother, was only 23 years old.
Surveillance footage depicted Zarutska boarding the CATS Blue Line train while wearing headphones and taking a seat in front of Brown, who was covering his face with his hand. There was no interaction between the two, as Zarutska focused on her phone.
A few moments after she boarded, Brown appeared to take something from his pocket.
After the stabbing, Brown moved to the opposite end of the train, removed his hoodie, while other passengers rushed to assist Zarutska.
Zarutska’s family is now calling for justice following this brutal act.
“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,” a family spokesperson stated, as per WSCOC-9.
“No family should have to go through this.”
On Monday, September 8, Brown faced federal charges that could potentially result in the death penalty if he is found guilty.
His criminal record includes 13 prior convictions, including armed robbery. At the time of the alleged crime, Brown was released without bail, awaiting trial for previous charges.
Following the release of the footage, 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.”