A North Carolina train stabbing suspect has spoken from jail, providing insight into a fatal attack on a Ukrainian refugee. Decarlos Brown Jr. faces both state and federal charges in connection with the death of 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska. She reportedly died after being stabbed aboard a Charlotte light rail train.
State authorities charged Brown with first-degree murder. Meanwhile, federal authorities accused him of causing death on a mass transportation system. Court documents claim that Brown allegedly unfolded a knife and stabbed Zarutska multiple times shortly after she boarded the train. He has not entered a plea yet.
From jail, the train stabbing suspect spoke to his sister. During the conversation, he admitted, “I hurt my hand, stabbing her. I don’t even know the lady.” Additionally, he claimed that “materials” in his brain influenced his actions.
He also told his sister that the government planted the materials. According to him, “They just lashed out on her. Whoever controlled the materials made it happen. That’s all there is to it.”
Earlier, Brown made similar statements to police during a welfare check. At that time, he said someone gave him “man-made” material that controlled his behavior, including when he ate, walked, and spoke.
Tracey Brown described her brother as dangerous and unstable. She criticized authorities for releasing him before the attack occurred, arguing that he posed a serious risk. Meanwhile, authorities continue investigating Zarutska’s death. They are actively gathering evidence and reviewing all circumstances surrounding the case.
Experts note that incidents like this raise serious questions about identifying dangerous individuals before they commit violent acts. Consequently, law enforcement and mental health officials are evaluating ways to prevent similar tragedies. Furthermore, this case highlights public safety concerns, particularly the need for stricter monitoring of individuals with known mental health risks.
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