Charlotte light rail train stabbing suspect charged

Police in Charlotte, North Carolina, have formally charged a man in connection with a stabbing that occurred on a light rail train last Friday. Oscar Solarzano, 33, is facing five charges, including attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon causing serious injury, and carrying a concealed weapon, according to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.

The victim, a man, was discovered with a stab wound shortly before 5 p.m. near the intersection of North Brevard Street and East 22nd Street, where the train had apparently stopped between stations, local ABC affiliate WSOC reported.

He was taken to Novant Health Presbyterian with serious injuries but is reported to be in stable condition, according to the Mecklenburg EMS Agency.

Authorities apprehended Solarzano soon after the incident. He was taken to the police division for questioning by detectives and, following the interview, was transferred to the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office.

This event occurs months after a fatal stabbing of a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee on the Blue Line of the Charlotte light rail. In that case, 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr. was charged with first-degree murder and later indicted on federal charges for violence against a mass transportation system resulting in death.

Anyone who witnessed Friday's stabbing or has information is encouraged to contact Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600, submit tips via the Charlotte Crime Stoppers P3 Tips Mobile App, or visit their website.

Author: Lucas Grant