Prosecutors say Charlotte train stabbing case won't be dismissed regardless of competency ruling

Federal prosecutors and defense attorneys are now aligned in pushing forward a competency determination for the man accused of a brutal killing aboard a Charlotte light rail train, according to new court filings submitted Thursday.

A Bureau of Prisons evaluation concluded Brown is not competent to stand trial at this time after what prosecutors described as an extensive review that included interviews, medical records and direct observation over multiple sessions.

Federal officials said the evaluation also found Brown could likely be restored to competency with treatment.

They point to findings from federal examiners that Brown lacks a factual understanding of the legal system and cannot assist his lawyers because of his condition.

If a judge agrees, federal law requires that Brown be transferred into the custody of the attorney general for hospitalization and treatment at a specialized facility.

Prosecutors said that treatment period can last up to four months initially, with additional time possible if doctors determine there is a substantial probability he can be restored to competency. They added that treatment could include medication, including involuntary medication under certain legal standards.

Even if Brown is ruled incompetent, the case would not be dismissed. Prosecutors emphasized that a finding of incompetence would not end the case but would instead trigger a process aimed at restoring Brown's competency so proceedings can continue.

Rep. Mark Harris, R-N.C., reacted to the earlier ruling by writing, "This is DESPICABLE. Iryna deserves JUSTICE. She was MURDERED. So why is the system FAILING her?"

Brown is accused of carrying out a sudden and deadly attack on Aug. 22, 2025, when prosecutors say he boarded the Lynx Blue Line, sat behind Zarutska and within minutes pulled a knife and stabbed her multiple times in the neck without warning.

A federal judge will determine the issue at a competency hearing.

Fox News Digital's Julia Bonavita contributed to this report.