CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte City Council members are calling on the North Carolina General Assembly for additional support to address public safety and mental health concerns following the murder of Iryna Zarutska on the light rail system.

The request came during committee meetings Monday, where the safety committee received updates on current mental health services and what law enforcement officials say they need to prevent similar incidents.

CMPD officers told council members they need more than additional patrols — they require enhanced mental health response training. Experts also addressed the state's shortage of psychiatric beds.

Councilmember Malcolm Graham said most of the necessary changes would need to come from the General Assembly.

"Most of the type of reform that is needed

See Full Page