Ukrainian Refugee Iryna Zarutska Buried in US After Charlotte Train Attack

Iryna Zarutska was stabbed to death on a Charlotte light rail train in August. The 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee will not be returned to her homeland for burial. Her family made an urgent request for her to remain in the United States. Officials confirmed the funeral was held in North Carolina.

According to Reuters, the Ukrainian embassy had offered assistance to repatriate her body. Her mother and uncle declined the offer. They stated that Zarutska loved America and wished for her to be buried there.

Family’s Heartfelt Decision and Suspect’s Federal Charges

US Attorney Russ Ferguson detailed the family’s choice at a recent briefing. FBI agent James Barnacle Jr. relayed the family’s words. “She loved America. We’re going to bury her here,” they told him.

Ferguson also highlighted Zarutska’s life and contributions. She was a college graduate who worked at a pizza restaurant. She cared for animals and volunteered at a senior center.

Justice Department officials have charged suspect DeCarlos Brown Jr. with a federal crime. The charge could potentially carry the death penalty. Attorney General Pam Bondi called the murder an “unforgivable act of violence.”

Public Urged to Respect Family’s Wishes Regarding Attack Video

The Zarutska family has issued a urgent plea to the public. They are asking people not to share the graphic video of the attack. The footage, which circulated online, shows the violent assault on the train.

The family requests that the media and public respect their grief. They ask for Iryna’s dignity to be preserved in death. This appeal aims to prevent further trauma from the video’s circulation.

Iryna Zarutska’s story is a tragic loss of a young life dedicated to building a new future. Her family’s choice for a US burial underscores her deep connection to her adopted country. The pursuit of justice for her killing continues at the federal level.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Iryna Zarutska?

Iryna Zarutska was a 23-year-old refugee from Ukraine. She was a college graduate working in North Carolina. She was known for her volunteer work and love for animals.

Why was she buried in the US and not Ukraine?

Her family stated that she loved America and wanted to stay. They made the personal decision to have her funeral in North Carolina. The Ukrainian embassy had offered to help return her body.

What charges does the suspect face?

DeCarlos Brown Jr. faces a federal charge for the attack. This charge could potentially result in the death penalty. The Justice Department is leading the prosecution.

What did the family request from the public?

The family urgently asked people not to share the video of the attack. They seek to preserve Iryna’s dignity and manage their own grief. The graphic footage was captured on the train.

Trusted Sources: Reuters