Ukrainian Refugee Killed in Charlotte: Suspect Charged with Murder, Sparks Political debate
Charlotte, NC – A Ukrainian refugee, identified as Iryna, was killed in Charlotte, north Carolina, after being struck by a train. Authorities have arrested and charged Michael Brown with first-degree murder in connection with the death. Federal charges filed Tuesday carry the potential for life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Friends remember Iryna as a passionate artist and animal lover.
The case has drawn national attention, including a response from President Donald trump, who criticized the handling of violence, mental health issues, and transportation in cities governed by Democrats.
“For too long, Americans have been forced to withstand cities governed by Democrats who release wild and thirst for blood to attack innocent people,” Trump stated in a video posted by the White House’s X account.
The White House shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) on September 9, 2025, denouncing the crime and calling for “protection, safety, LAW & ORDER.”
Trump linked the murder to his previous threats to deploy federal agents and National Guard troops to cities with Democratic leadership, including Chicago. He recently sent the National Guard to Washington D.C., despite statistics indicating a decrease in violent crime in both Washington D.C. and Chicago.
“When horrible murders occur, horrible actions must be taken,” the president added.