Ukrainian Refugee Iryna Zarutska Embraced the American Dream Before Her Tragic Stabbing, Relatives Say
Charlotte, NC — Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, 23, was fatally stabbed on a Charlotte light rail train on August 22, leaving a grieving community and family mourning the loss of a young woman who had embraced the American Dream with unwavering dedication.
A Life of Compassion and Determination
Even without fully mastering English, Zarutska quickly became a valued member of her community in North Carolina. She had arrived in the United States from Kyiv in August 2022 with her mother and two younger siblings, seeking a fresh start away from the devastation of war in Ukraine.
Her uncle, who requested anonymity, told PEOPLE that Iryna was “a very, very caring person” who “loved to help people” and served as the glue of her family. During her three years in North Carolina, she built strong connections with neighbors, coworkers, and residents at the assisted living facility where she worked in Huntersville, N.C.
Her viewing and funeral were attended by more than 100 people from the facility alone, reflecting the deep impression Zarutska had left in her short life.
Tragic Incident on Charlotte Light Rail
Zarutska’s life was cut short while she was returning home from Zepeddies Pizzeria, where she had worked her way up from an entry-level position to line cook. The suspect, Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, has been arrested on a first-degree murder charge and faces federal charges for committing an act causing death on a mass transportation system.
Video footage of the unprovoked attack has sparked outrage nationwide and highlighted concerns about public safety on mass transit systems.
Pursuing the American Dream
Despite the trauma of war and the challenges of relocating to a new country, Zarutska remained focused on her goals. She aspired to become a veterinary assistant, enrolled in community college classes to improve her English, and learned to drive, saving diligently to purchase her first car.
Her uncle shared that she had recently told him via text how proud she was of buying a car and preparing to get her driver’s license. Her first planned trip after getting her license was to visit her uncle and his wife, demonstrating her strong family ties and joyful spirit.
Community and Family Remembrance
Zarutska’s colleagues at Zepeddies Pizzeria remembered her as an “incredible employee” and a “true friend,” with the restaurant owner attending her funeral. Her uncle emphasized that she should be remembered not just for her tragic death, but for her contributions to society and the love she showed for her family.
Her father, unable to attend the funeral in person, watched via FaceTime, along with her grieving mother. While the Ukrainian embassy offered to repatriate her remains, the family chose to keep her in the U.S., reflecting her profound connection to the country she had come to love.
Legacy of Hope and Inspiration
Iryna Zarutska is survived by her parents, Anna Zarutska and Stanislav Zarutskyi, her siblings Valeriia and Bohdan, her life partner Stas Nikulytsia, and extended family. Her story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the pursuit of a brighter future even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
Her life, though tragically short, continues to inspire those who knew her and serves as a reminder of the enduring human spirit and the pursuit of the American Dream.