Featured photo by Cody Hughes
By Carrie Penley
Iryna Zaretska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, left her home in 2022 and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina. She was looking for safety and a chance to build a new life, yet on August 22, all that was shattered for her due to an unexpected act of violence.
Zarutska came to North Carolina, leaving behind a country devastated by Russia’s invasion. She was working hard, trying, and building a new life when her life was cut short. According to The Charlotte Ledger, when Iryna Zaretska was laid to rest, family and friends gathered together, remembering her as a vibrant and determined young woman.
Zarutska boarded the Lynx Blue Line light rail. Viral surveillance footage shows that within minutes of boarding, Zarutska was allegedly attacked by Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, a fellow passenger behind her. She suffered from fatal wounds and died on the train. Brown was arrested immediately after stepping off at the next stop.
Zarutska’s killing has triggered a widespread debate in North Carolina. Lawmakers have proposed “Iryna’s Law,” which would toughen bail requirements and mandate court-ordered mental health evaluations for individuals charged with certain offenses. Supporters say these changes could prevent future tragedies. Critics argue the proposals risk unfairly targeting vulnerable communities.
Brown has a record of 14 prior arrests. He also has a documented history of schizophrenia. Family members of his had previously asked for him to be committed for psychiatric care, but those requests were denied.
“There is no question of innocence here; it is on video, but you have to look at it as a whole. If his (Brown’s) mental health was looked at, not taking the blame off of him, but you have to question if the justice system, if they had kept him in rehabilitation, would this have happened?” said Tatianna Terry, a double major in psychology and criminal justice.
Brown now faces both state murder charges and federal charges for violence on a mass transit system, carrying the possibility of life in prison or the death penalty.
“Certain parties’ views on violence and murder when releasing criminals on a political agenda have allowed the government to fail us. People are looking for an inclusive and safe society, but nowhere is safe,” said Caleb Thompson, who is a pre-law major.
Zarutska’s death has drawn attention far beyond North Carolina. In Ukraine, it was mourned as another cruel loss for a nation already scarred by war. In the U.S., the case has become politically charged. Federal officials have pledged to pursue the maximum penalties available for this case.
While the investigation is still ongoing for this case, the impact of it will remain. The loss of young Zarutska will continue the conversation about public safety, mental health, and tragedies like this one, never going unnoticed.