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Charlotte Bolsters Transit Security After Viral Video of Train Killing

The suspect remains jailed without bond pending a court-ordered competency review.

Overview

  • Iryna Zarutska, 23, a Ukrainian refugee, was fatally stabbed in the neck on the Lynx Blue Line on Aug. 22, minutes after boarding near Camden Road.
  • Police detained 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr., who was treated for a hand injury, lacked a valid ticket, and now faces a first-degree murder charge.
  • Investigators report no prior interaction between the two and no established motive, and they have not indicated the case is being pursued as a hate crime.
  • WBTV published edited surveillance footage from inside the train that spread widely online and intensified scrutiny of rider safety.
  • CATS and city leaders announced immediate steps including more onboard security, expanded camera monitoring, and a pilot to increase police presence at key times and stations.