Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, just 23 years old, leaves her homeland to start a new life in the United States, along with her family. Known for her love of animals and art, Iryna dreams of becoming a veterinary assistant.

Her tight-knit family supports her as she adapts to life in the U.S. Mastering English and landing work at a pizza restaurant. But one Friday night after work, things take a terrifying turn that could have possibly been avoided, according to some lawmakers.

After her shift, Iryna boards the Charlotte, North Carolina, Transit System, unknowingly sitting in front of Decarlos Brown Jr., a man with a violent past and rap sheet.

Without warning, Decarlos Brown pulls out a pocketknife, stands, and lunges over the seat, stabbing Iryna in the neck. As he walks away, blood dripping from the knife onto the train floor, Iryna fights desperately for her life, clutching her neck but unable to call for help.

Passengers just watch, some recording the brutal attack and her bleeding out, as others flee in panic, doing nothing to help the dying passenger, Iryna. Decarlos Brown paces the train, changes his shirt, and calmly exits the train at the next stop.

Her fatal stabbing has generated national outrage after the video of the killing was released, and the suspect was identified as having a history of violent crimes and should be in jail. The public questions how a repeat offender was free to roam.

Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, was charged with committing an act causing death on a mass transportation system and is being held without bond.

Joining Nancy Grace today:

Additional Guests

Dr. Sue Cornbluth – Family and Relationship Expert, Owner of Dr. Sue & You, Author of “Building Self-Esteem in Children and Teens Who Are Adopted or Fostered;” YouTube: DrSueAndYou

Tom Green – Former Chief Deputy with Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Homicide Detective & Cold Case Squad Burglary/Fraud Detective (high-tech surveillance & covert surveillance); Currently: Private Investigator, Owner of Nevada Investigative Services LLC

“Crime Stories with Nancy Grace” on Fox Nation is also a national radio show on SiriusXM channel 111, airing for two hours daily starting at 12 p.m. EST. You can also subscribe and download the daily podcasts at iHeart Podcasts.

[Feature Photo: Iryna Zarutska/Handout]