Charlotte files lawsuit over fatal stabbing of Ukrainian refugee on transit train

The family of Irina Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee who fled the war to seek safety in the United States, has filed a lawsuit against the city of Charlotte and Professional Security Services. The legal action follows the fatal stabbing of the 23-year-old on a Charlotte Area Transit System train one year ago.

The lawsuit, filed in Mecklenburg County Superior Court, alleges that the city and the security firm failed to implement adequate safety measures despite being aware of frequent violent crimes on that transit line. The plaintiffs argue that the death could have been prevented through better fare control, the installation of turnstiles, and an increased presence of security personnel.

Zarutska was reportedly stabbed multiple times in the neck by Decarlos Brown Jr. while returning home from work. Brown, who has a history of criminal activity and mental health issues, was ruled unfit to stand trial in June due to his mental state. The incident has prompted public debate and legislative discussions regarding transit safety in North Carolina.