Zarutska was fatally stabbed while riding a CATS light rail train in 2025. The lawsuit alleges the city and the security company were aware of violent crime occurring on and around the light rail system before her death.
According to the lawsuit, adequate safety measures were not in place, including sufficient fare enforcement and staffing.
DeCarlos Brown is charged with first-degree murder in connection with Zarutska's death. However, the criminal case is currently on hold after a judge ruled Brown is not competent to stand trial.
According to ABC affiliate WSOC, neither the City of Charlotte nor Professional Security Services has publicly addressed the allegations in the lawsuit. A spokesperson for the city told ABC11 it does not comment on active litigation.
Both the city and Professional Security Services are expected to respond to the lawsuit in the coming weeks.