A North Carolina psychiatric evaluation has found Decarlos Brown Jr. “incapable to proceed” in the murder case tied to the fatal stabbing of Iryna Zarutska, a determination that could significantly delay state prosecution.
According to a motion filed April 7, clinicians at Central Regional Hospital evaluated Brown and issued a report dated Dec. 29, 2025. The report concluded he is “incapable to proceed,” though a state judge has not yet ruled on whether to adopt that finding. Until then, the case remains pending without a clear trial timeline.
Brown’s public defender is seeking a 180-day continuance, including postponement of a hearing that would determine whether the state will pursue capital punishment. The motion also reveals findings from a previously sealed competency evaluation, placing the defendant’s mental state at the center of the proceedings.
Charlotte’s Decarlos Brown Jr. Declared Unfit For Trial In Iryna Zarutska Stabbing By Doctor
Prosecutors allege Brown stabbed Zarutska, 23, aboard a Charlotte light rail train in August 2025. The high-profile killing drew national scrutiny and prompted legislative response, including the enactment of Iryna’s Law.
Complicating matters, Brown remains in federal custody in Chicago following an Oct. 22 indictment for violence against a mass transportation system resulting in death. His attorney argues that the state court “cannot proceed with a capacity hearing” while Brown is held federally. The filing further asserts the court cannot order efforts to restore competency under those conditions.
The Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office has consented to the requested continuance. However, federal proceedings introduce additional uncertainty. Brown is undergoing a separate psychiatric evaluation in that case, which remains incomplete, according to March 6 filings.
Legal observers note that parallel competency reviews in state and federal court are uncommon. Limited psychiatric bed availability in North Carolina continues to delay restoration efforts, often extending timelines well beyond a year.
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