Chiefs Star Travis Kelce Donates $1 Million for Murals Honoring Ukrainian Refugee After Charlotte Tragedy

Chiefs Star Travis Kelce Donates $1 Million for Murals Honoring Ukrainian Refugee After Charlotte Tragedy

Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce has pledged $1 million to fund murals in major U.S. cities honoring Iryna Zarutska, the Ukrainian refugee whose life was cut short in a shocking stabbing on a Charlotte light-rail train.

The donation will support large-scale murals in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Charlotte, and beyond, aiming to immortalize Zarutska’s face while sparking national dialogue around public safety and mental health reform.

The donation will support large-scale murals in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Charlotte, and beyond, aiming to immortalize Zarutska’s face while sparking national dialogue around public safety and mental health reform.

Kelce’s involvement marks one of the most high-profile athlete contributions yet to the growing movement, which began with tech leaders and philanthropists and has since evolved into a unifying call for change.

“Iryna’s story is devastating, but her legacy can be one of hope,” Kelce said in a statement. “This $1 million pledge is about honoring her life, demanding safer cities, and reminding people everywhere that compassion and action must go hand in hand.”

Zarutska, 23, had fled Ukraine seeking refuge from war, only to become the victim of a senseless attack. The accused, Decarlos Brown Jr., faces both state and federal charges, with prosecutors weighing the death penalty.

For Kelce, known as much for his leadership off the field as his dominance on it, the pledge reflects a belief that athletes must use their platform for impact beyond sports. His support is expected to help fund dozens of murals designed by local artists, each reflecting resilience, unity, and remembrance.

Community leaders welcomed Kelce’s action, noting the influence his name carries in mobilizing fans and resources. Many believe his involvement will accelerate

awareness and ensure Zarutska’s legacy endures not just in memory but in tangible public spaces.

As the campaign moves forward, Kelce reaffirmed his commitment to stand alongside victims’ families and advocates. “We can’t undo the tragedy, but we can make sure her name and her story never fade. That’s what this is about — keeping hope alive in the face of heartbreak