Carlos Brown Jr., the suspect in the murder of Iryna Zarutska, faces the death penalty if convicted. Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, was stabbed multiple times on a light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina, on August 22, 2025.
Brown has been charged with one federal count of committing an act causing death on a mass transportation system, which carries a potential death penalty or life imprisonment.
Brown faces a federal charge that could lead to the death penalty, as well as a separate charge of first-degree murder in state court.
Brown has a history of prior convictions, including armed robbery, breaking and entering, and larceny.
Brown’s lawyer has mentioned that he has a long history of mental health issues.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is investigating the incident, and surveillance footage shows Brown stabbing Zarutska without any apparent interaction.
The killing has sparked outrage and discussions about transit security, fare enforcement, and gaps in the criminal justice and mental health systems.
If convicted, Brown could face the death penalty the prosecution is seeking the maximum penalty, with Attorney General Pam Bondi stating that Brown “will never again see the light of day as a free man”.
President Donald has also wrote from White House that the heinous crime is deserving of a death sentence and no other option.
“The ANIMAL who so violently killed the beautiful young lady from Ukraine, who came to America searching for peace and safety, should be given a “Quick” (there is no doubt!) Trial, and only awarded THE DEATH PENALTY. There can be no other option!!!”.
