New law could see killer of Ukrainian refugee
“Iryna’s Law” Could Impact Death Penalty for Her Killer
The tragic murder of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on August 22 shocked the nation.
Zarutska was stabbed on a Charlotte train by Decarlos Brown Jr., a known felon with 14 prior arrests.
Despite witnesses’ efforts, she died at the scene.
In response, North Carolina passed House Bill 307, “Iryna’s Law,” signed by Governor Josh Stein.
The law aims to flag dangerous individuals for stricter bail considerations.
It also includes provisions that could allow capital punishment,
including rare methods like firing squads—though Stein clarified he opposes firing squads and
the state currently uses lethal injection.
Brown faces the death penalty if convicted.
The law honors Zarutska’s memory and seeks to prevent similar tragedies.
