23-year-old Ukrainian refugee and artist Iryna Zarutska was fatally stabbed on a Charlotte light rail train.

CHARLOTTE, NC – On August 22nd, 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee and artist Iryna Zarutska was fatally stabbed on a Charlotte light rail train.

A video released of the incident shows Zarutska entering the train and sitting in front of Brown. Minutes later, Brown pulls out a pocket knife and stands behind the victim and slashes her in the neck.

Decarlos Brown Jr. was arrested for the fatal stabbing and was quickly sent to a state mental hospital for evaluations.

He was recently charged federally with causing death on a mass transportation system. This charge carries up to life in prison or the death penalty. Additional charges may be made as the investigation continues.

Records show that Brown has been through the criminal justice system for more than a decade, dating back to 2014. Brown had been through a previous arrest where he claimed he was given a “human-made substance” that controlled his every movement.

He had previously been diagnosed with schizophrenia, and Brown’s mother had also pursued an involuntary psychiatric commitment this year after he had become violent at home.

This is one of many incidents that highlight the challenges of safety with America’s public transportation services.

Former U.S. Department of Transportation inspector general Mary Schiavo says, “Wherever you have a gathering of people, it's a target, particularly if the people can't escape,” she continues, “And therein lies the problem. Once you're on the train, the bus, the plane, the ship - you're captive."

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles has stated that the city is working on increasing security and police patrols on the Charlotte Area Transit System.

Since the attack, the Federal Transit Administration has also launched an investigation into the safety plans and security spending of the systems.

Natalee Bravo is a second-year majoring in advertising. To reach her, email nbb5612@psu.edu.