The city of Charlotte, North Carolina, is reeling from a devastating act of violence that has left a young child orphaned and a community searching for answers. DeCarlos Brown, 33, and his partner, Iryna Zarutska, 26, were tragically killed in what authorities are investigating as a domestic-related shooting.
The alleged perpetrator, Mr. Brown's 34-year-old brother, is now in police custody after being located at a residence in neighbouring Union County. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department responded to the distressing scene on a quiet Sunday morning, where they discovered the two victims with fatal gunshot wounds.
A Life Cut Short and a Future Stolen
DeCarlos Brown, known affectionately as 'Los' to his friends and family, was a dedicated father and a respected barber at Fades and Fros Academy. Described as a man with a "heart of gold," his sudden loss has created an immense void.
Iryna Zarutska, a native of Ukraine who had made Charlotte her home, was a loving mother and partner. Her life, full of promise, was brutally cut short. The couple leaves behind their three-year-old daughter, Karter, who was present in the home during the unspeakable tragedy but was thankfully physically unharmed.
A Community's Embrace: The Power of Collective Support
In the face of unimaginable grief, the community has swiftly mobilised to provide support. A GoFundMe campaign, organised by a close friend of the family, has been established with a singular, urgent mission: to secure the future and well-being of young Karter.
The fundraiser aims to cover immediate funeral expenses and establish a foundation for Karter's upbringing, including essential costs like childcare and education. The overwhelming response, with thousands of pounds donated, is a testament to the impact DeCarlos and Iryna had on those around them and the collective desire to shield their daughter from further hardship.
Seeking Justice and Healing
As the legal process unfolds against the accused, the focus for those who loved DeCarlos and Iryna remains on healing and remembrance. They are recalled not for the manner of their death, but for the joy and love they brought into the world—a legacy that now lives on through their little girl.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the enduring strength of community in the darkest of times.
