Iryna Zarutska, at the age of 23, fled the turmoil in Ukraine seeking refuge in the United States, only to be tragically killed in a stabbing incident on a train in North Carolina.

Born on May 22, 2002, to Anna Zarutska and Stanislav Zarutskyi, Iryna is fondly recalled by friends as a dedicated artist with a deep affection for animals. Her ambition was to become a veterinary assistant, as stated in her obituary.

Prior to relocating to the U.S., Iryna earned her degree in art and restoration from Synergy College in Kyiv. Her obituary highlighted her talent for creating art pieces for her close ones.

“Iryna will be cherished for her kindness, creativity, and the profound impact she had on everyone she encountered. Her absence is deeply felt, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who adored her,” her obituary stated.

After Zarutska’s killing, Zepeddie’s Pizzeria issued a statement on social media, calling her death “a tremendous loss.”

“We’ve lost not only an outstanding employee but a dear friend. Our beloved Iryna departed from us much too early, leaving us heartbroken,” expressed Zepeddie’s Pizzeria on Instagram. “As we navigate this tragic time, we ask for understanding and patience as we seek solace… Iryna, words cannot express how much we miss you. You will always hold a place in our hearts.”

In their post, Zepeddie’s shared that a candle continues to burn in Iryna’s memory, representing “the warmth, kindness, and brightness she added to our lives each day.”

L-R: A mugshot of Decarlos Brown; surveillance video showing Brown on the light rail train.  (Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office; CATS)

Brown has been charged with first-degree murder, according to the Mecklenburg County arrest warrant. Police said Brown and Zarutska did not know each other and that the attack was random. 

Records obtained by Fox News Digital show Brown has a lengthy history of arrests, going back over a decade. His record includes convictions for larceny and breaking-and-entering in 2013 and a 2015 conviction for robbery with a dangerous weapon.

He served in prison until 2020 and was on parole until 2021. Subsequent charges against him included communicating threats and misuse of the 911 system earlier this year.