When 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska arrived in North Carolina, she carried hope in her heart and determination in her spirit. A Ukrainian refugee, she fled war with her mother and siblings, seeking safety and the chance to rebuild a life in America.
Despite the trauma of displacement, Iryna quickly became a valued member of her new community. Friends describe her as compassionate, kind, and resilient, someone whose optimism brightened every room she entered.
Her journey in North Carolina was not easy. She balanced multiple jobs, attended English classes, and pursued her dream of becoming a veterinary assistant. Every day was a step toward independence and stability.
For two years, her path seemed steady. Iryna worked tirelessly to support her family and save for milestones, including her first car and the independence that symbolized her hard-earned progress.
Her neighbors admired her dedication. Many noted that she was always willing to help others, whether volunteering her time or offering a comforting word. She embodied perseverance and hope.
Tragically, that hope was shattered on August 22, 2025. After finishing a long shift at a Charlotte pizzeria, Iryna boarded a light-rail train, tired but content, unaware of the danger lurking ahead.
Authorities say she was attacked by Decarlos Brown Jr., a man with a lengthy criminal history. Surveillance footage shows no prior interaction between the two, deepening the sense of shock and sorrow in the community.
Brown was arrested at the next station and now faces first-degree murder charges. Federal authorities are also pursuing additional counts related to crimes committed on public transit.
The swiftness of the arrest offered little comfort to friends, family, and neighbors mourning Iryna’s sudden and senseless death. The tragedy left a permanent mark on Charlotte’s collective heart.
Over a hundred mourners attended her funeral, paying tribute to a young woman whose life was filled with promise, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her loved ones.
Her uncle, who helped bring the family to the U.S., described her as the embodiment of kindness and perseverance — a beacon of hope for all who knew her.
Friends recalled her love of animals, her artistic talents, and her selflessness in helping others, painting the picture of a young woman whose life was tragically cut short.
Iryna had just saved enough to buy her first car and was preparing for her driver’s test. These small victories were a symbol of her dreams, her independence, and her commitment to her future.
Her co-workers at the pizzeria spoke of her diligence, her bright personality, and the way she motivated those around her to be better and kinder.
Community leaders in Charlotte have called for increased safety measures on public transit, citing Iryna’s death as a wake-up call to protect vulnerable passengers.
Local refugee organizations have also rallied around her story, highlighting the contributions of displaced families and the urgent need for community support.
While her life was brief, Iryna’s spirit continues to inspire. Her compassion, drive, and warmth have left a lasting legacy for friends, family, and all who knew her story.
Vigils and memorials have been held in her honor, emphasizing her impact on the community and the void her loss has created.
As the investigation continues, Charlotte residents remember Iryna not just for the tragedy of her death but for the remarkable life she lived in a short 23 years.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and the importance of kindness in the face of adversity — a legacy that refuses to be forgotten.