Iryna Zaruska was a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who was fatally stabbed on August 22, 2025, on a light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina. She had fled the war in Ukraine with her family and was adapting to life in the U.S., working at a pizzeria and aspiring to become a veterinary assistant. The assailant, Decarlos Brown, a 34-year-old homeless man with a long criminal record and documented mental health issues, stabbed her unprovoked. Brown was previously arrested multiple times and was recently released on bail. The incident was captured on surveillance video and has caused significant outrage, with criticism directed at local authorities and the justice system for failing to prevent the tragedy. Brown faces first-degree murder charges and a psychological evaluation. The case has drawn political attention, including condemnation from former President Donald Trump and scrutiny of crime policies in North Carolina.