đ¨BREAKING: Steelers Star T.J. Watt Donates $150K to Honor Iryna Zarutska đš
Pittsburgh, PA â September 10, 2025 â The tragic killing of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian woman in Charlotte, continues to spark waves of solidarity and remembrance. On Wednesday, Pittsburgh Steelers star T.J. Watt became the latest figure to step forward, joining Elon Musk in honoring her memory with a significant donation.
Musk had previously pledged $1 million to fund murals of Zarutska across major U.S. cities, part of an initiative launched by Intercom CEO Eogan McCabe, who committed $500,000 in artist grants to support the project.
Now Watt has added to the effort with a $150,000 contribution, saying he felt personally moved to act after hearing Zarutskaâs story. âThis is about more than football. Irynaâs story is a reminder of how fragile life can be, and I want to help ensure she is remembered with love, compassion, and dignity,â Watt said in his statement.
The show of support comes amid broader calls for justice. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly demanded the death penalty for suspect Dekarlos Brown, who faces a first-degree murder charge in connection with Zarutskaâs death.
For Watt, the donation reflects his long-standing commitment to community and compassion, highlighting how athletes can use their platform to stand with victims of violence. His act of generosity joins a growing movement to turn sorrow into unity and to ensure Zarutskaâs name endures as a symbol of hope and humanity.












