girl stabbed to death on train

1. How did the girl get stabbed on the train?
Iryna Zarutska was riding the light rail train when another passenger, Decarlos Brown Jr., attacked her. Video shows he sat behind her. Without any warning or talking to her, he pulled out a knife and stabbed her several times, including in the neck. It seemed like a random attack, meaning she didn’t know him.

2. Where and when did the stabbing take place?
The stabbing happened on the Lynx Blue Line light rail train in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was on August 22, 2025, just before 10:00 PM.

3. Was the attacker identified or arrested?
Yes, the attacker, Decarlos Brown Jr., was identified and arrested soon after the incident. He was taken into custody on the platform when he got off the train.

4. What charges is the suspect facing?
Decarlos Brown Jr. has been charged with first-degree murder by North Carolina prosecutors. He is also facing federal charges, including an act causing death on a mass transportation system, which could mean he faces life in prison or even the death penalty.

5. Were there witnesses or surveillance video of the attack?
Yes, there were other passengers on the train who saw what happened. The attack was also captured on surveillance video from the train system, which has been released to the public.

6. Did the train operator or transit authority respond?
The train operator followed procedures by holding the train until the police arrived. The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) released the surveillance video and has been involved in the investigation.

7. Are there safety warnings for passengers after this incident?
While there haven’t been specific new warnings issued directly because of this one event, incidents like this remind everyone about the importance of staying aware of their surroundings. Transit authorities always encourage passengers to report anything suspicious.

8. Has this led to changes in transit security or policy?
This event has caused a lot of discussion about transit safety, security measures, and how the justice system handles people with past criminal records and mental health issues. Officials are looking at ways to improve safety.

9. How can riders report suspicious behavior on trains?
Riders can usually report suspicious behavior to the train operator, transit police, or by using a safety app or phone number provided by the transit authority. It’s important to trust your instincts and speak up if something feels wrong.

10. How common are violent attacks on U.S. transit systems?
While violent attacks on U.S. transit systems can happen, they are statistically rare. Studies show that most people use public transit safely every day. However, there has been a focus on increasing safety and addressing issues like mental health on transit.