Family of Iryna Zarutska ‘profoundly touched’ by researcher naming new butterfly species after her

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WJZY) — A researcher in Virginia has made a lasting tribute to the woman who was killed on Charlotte’s light rail this summer.

Harry Pavulaan with the International Lepidoptera Survey named a new butterfly species after Iryna Zarutska last month.

“A butterfly is a beautiful organism,” he said.

The newly recognized species is called Celastrina iryna. Its common name is Iryna’s Azure.

Zarutska’s tragic story grabbed the nation’s attention, and Pavulaan’s, following her killing in August on a Charlotte light rail train.

“It was just so disturbing,” Pavulaan said. “I figured maybe I can do my part to give her a tribute.”

Pavulaan researched the unique butterfly in South Carolina, where they’re found.

Initially, he was going to call the species ‘Carolina’, but he says he felt it was his mission to bring awareness to Zarutska’s case.

“Her soul just touched me,” Pavulaan said. “It was just by coincidence that I was preparing to publish this butterfly, and everything fell together nicely. It was perfect timing.”

Zarutska’s family’s lawyer told Queen City News, “Iryna’s mother and the entire family were profoundly touched by this beautiful and unexpected tribute. In Ukrainian culture, butterflies are seen as a sign from heaven — a gentle reminder that our loved ones are still with us — and this moment carried deep meaning for everyone.”

She says the family wrote Pavulaan a letter thanking him and is displaying the butterfly and his scientific paper in their home.

Decarlos Brown is charged with Zarutska’s murder.

Since her death, a new North Carolina law was passed that also carries her name.

Iryna’s Law enacts criminal justice reforms, including eliminating cashless bail for many crimes.