A federal magistrate has blocked the release of investigative materials related to an August 2025 stabbing on the Charlotte light rail that resulted in the death of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska. U.S. Magistrate Judge David Keesler issued the order after DeCarlos Brown Jr.'s defense argued that public disclosure could affect his right to a fair trial, WCNC Charlotte reported. The order followed requests from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and the North Carolina state House Oversight Committee.
The case has drawn attention to public safety on Charlotte’s transit system and legislative reviews of local policies. The News & Observer noted that violent crime in Charlotte decreased 21% in 2025, while funding for police has increased in recent years.
Judge Keesler stated in court documents obtained by Catholic Vote that the release of materials could prejudice Brown’s constitutional rights and pose risks to witness safety. Brown remains federally indicted in connection with the stabbing. He has had prior interactions with CMPD related to mental health concerns, including a January 2025 incident captured on body-worn camera footage.
