Charlotte residents say the feel safer with increased security presence since light rail stabbing

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Wednesday marks 60 days since the deadly light rail stabbing that claimed the life of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska — an anniversary no one is celebrating, but one that continues to drive change across Charlotte’s transit system.

In the weeks following Zarutska’s death, city leaders pledged to strengthen public safety and boost police visibility on and around the light rail. Two months later, riders say those promises are beginning to take shape.

At the East/West light rail station in South End, a growing memorial still honors Zarutska’s memory. But nearby, the increased presence of security officers and police patrols has become part of the daily scene.

“Sometimes you’ll see them riding bikes or parked at different stops where the train stops, and that’s rea