Boyfriend of Ukrainian Woman Killed on Charlotte Train Speaks Out: Anger Over Judge’s Decision Sparks National Debate
The shocking death of 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee who fled war in search of safety, has left her family, friends, and the broader community devastated. What began as a normal evening commute on August 22 in Charlotte, North Carolina, turned into a tragedy that has drawn attention not only to her life and story but also to larger questions about the criminal justice system, mental health treatment, and community safety.
Zarutska’s boyfriend, Stanislav “Stas” Nikulytsia, has now broken his silence, posting an emotional tribute and publicly criticizing the judge who previously released the suspect. His grief has been shared by thousands online, while elected officials and community leaders are demanding accountability.
A Life of Hope Interrupted
Iryna Zarutska’s story is one of courage, resilience, and aspiration. According to her family, she left Ukraine in 2022 alongside her mother, brother, and sister after the Russian invasion. Like many refugees, she arrived in the United States with hopes of rebuilding her life.
Settling in Charlotte, North Carolina, she quickly established herself as a hardworking and determined young woman. While working full-time at a local pizzeria, she also enrolled in community college to improve her English. Friends and coworkers described her as warm, kind-hearted, and committed to her future.
Her obituary highlighted her dedication, describing her as “deeply loved by her family and friends” and someone whose dream was to live peacefully while contributing to her new community. Tragically, those dreams were cut short in an act of violence that shocked the region.
The Events of August 22
On that evening, Iryna boarded a Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) train. Reports indicate that the trip was ordinary until she was suddenly confronted in what police have described as an unprovoked attack.
Authorities later identified the suspect as 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr., a man with a troubling past and a history of run-ins with the law. Witnesses and investigators stated that the assault was random, leaving riders and officials stunned at how quickly the tragedy unfolded.
Iryna had texted her boyfriend, Stas, that she “would be home soon.” Those words, simple and ordinary, became devastating in hindsight as she never made it back home.
The Boyfriend’s Heartbreak and Anger
In the days following the incident, Stas initially remained silent, consumed by grief. But on Wednesday, he shared a deeply personal photo of the couple together in happier times, captioned only with a broken heart emoji. It was his first public acknowledgment of the loss.
Since then, he has voiced not only sorrow but also anger. Much of his frustration has been directed toward Magistrate Judge Teresa Stokes, who months earlier released Brown from custody on a written promise rather than setting bail, despite his lengthy criminal record.
Through social media, Stas reposted content criticizing the judge’s decision and called attention to the system’s failure to protect Iryna and others. His message has resonated with many, sparking widespread discussion about judicial accountability and the balance between justice reform and public safety.
Family’s Statement: A Life Stolen in the “Most Horrific Way”
Iryna’s family released a statement filled with grief and disbelief. They said:
“We are heartbroken beyond words. Iryna came here to find peace and safety, and instead her life was stolen from her in the most horrific way. No family should have to go through this.”
The words reflect the double tragedy faced by refugee families: escaping violence abroad only to encounter it in the very place they thought would bring safety. Their attorney added that Iryna was “a kind and hardworking young woman, deeply loved by her family and friends,” underscoring the immense loss felt by all who knew her.
Political and Public Reaction
The case has ignited intense public outcry. North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore issued a strong statement, arguing that the state’s justice system had failed Iryna.
“North Carolina’s justice system failed Iryna Zarutska. She came to Charlotte looking for safety and a better life, but instead, she was brutally murdered by a repeat offender who never should’ve been let back on the streets,” Moore said.
He went further to criticize Judge Stokes directly, calling her “unfit” for her role and insisting she should be removed from the bench immediately. His remarks have fueled debates about judicial discretion, bail reform, and community protection.
On social media, thousands echoed these sentiments. Posts with hashtags such as #JusticeForIryna and #JudicialAccountability gained traction, with users demanding stricter policies for repeat offenders and improved oversight of judicial decisions.
Community Response
Charlotte residents have rallied around Iryna’s family and boyfriend. Vigils have been organized, flowers placed at train stations, and crowdfunding campaigns launched to assist with funeral expenses and support her loved ones.
Local organizations supporting refugees and immigrants have also stepped in, noting that Iryna’s story is emblematic of both the hopes and vulnerabilities that many displaced families experience.
Community leaders have pledged to honor her memory by pushing for stronger safeguards that protect all residents, regardless of background.
Remembering Iryna: A Life Cut Short
Friends describe Iryna as someone who loved spending time outdoors, making people laugh, and dreaming of a brighter future. She wanted to pursue higher education, improve her English, and one day contribute to society as a professional.
Her boyfriend Stas shared that she often talked about creating a safe, loving home and building a life full of ordinary joys—dreams that now remain unfinished.
The family’s attorney summarized the loss poignantly:
“That night, she texted her boyfriend that she would be home soon. Tragically, her journey ended in violence near the Camden light rail station.”