A newly released video captures the final moments of Iryna Zarutska. The 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee was murdered on a Charlotte light rail train. The attack occurred on August 22 just before 10 p.m.
Surveillance footage shows the suspect, Decarlos Brown Jr., sitting behind her. Zarutska had recently fled the war in Ukraine for safety in the United States.
Surveillance Footage Details the Fatal Ambush
The video from the Charlotte Area Transit System is haunting. It shows Zarutska boarding the train in her work uniform. She sits down and looks at her phone, unaware of the danger.
Decarlos Brown Jr. is seen sitting directly behind her. Just four minutes later, he lunges forward with a folding knife.
Police reports confirm she was stabbed at least three times. One of the wounds was to her neck. She collapsed in her seat and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Suspect’s Lengthy Criminal History Revealed
Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, has a significant criminal record. According to WSOC-TV, his past arrests include robbery with a dangerous weapon. He once served a five-year prison sentence for that charge.
After the attack, Brown calmly walked through the rail car. He removed his sweatshirt and waited by the doors. Passengers eventually noticed blood on him.
He exited at the next stop. A folding knife was later found near the platform. Brown was treated for a hand cut and then taken into custody.
He now faces a first-degree murder charge. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles called the killing a “senseless and tragic loss.”
The video of the Charlotte train murder is a grim reminder of the tragedy. Iryna Zarutska’s death has shocked the local community and beyond. This case continues to develop as the judicial process begins.
Thought you’d like to know-
Who was Iryna Zarutska?
Iryna Zarutska was a 23-year-old refugee from Ukraine. She had recently moved to the United States to escape the war. She was working at a local pizzeria at the time of her death.
What charges does Decarlos Brown Jr. face?
Decarlos Brown Jr. has been charged with first-degree murder. His criminal history includes previous violent offenses. He remains in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.
Has the full video been released to the public?
No, the publicly released video is edited. The Charlotte Area Transit System removed the moment of the stabbing. This was done out of respect for the victim and her family.
How has the city of Charlotte responded?
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles issued a statement expressing heartbreak. She emphasized a commitment to improving public safety. The community has been urged not to share the graphic video footage.
Trusted Sources
New York Post, WSOC-TV, WCNC, Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS)
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