Jalen Hurts Joins Elon Musk in Honoring Iryna Zarutska With $360K Donation

In a stirring act of compassion that’s capturing the hearts of the NFL and humanitarian communities, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has pledged $360,000 to honor the memory of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee tragically killed in Charlotte, North Carolina, on August 22, 2025. Teaming up with tech visionary Elon Musk, who committed $1 million to the cause, Hurts’ donation will support a nationwide initiative to create murals celebrating Zarutska’s life while sparking critical conversations about public safety and justice.

The brutal stabbing of Zarutska on a Charlotte light-rail train by suspect Decarlos Brown Jr. has fueled widespread outrage and demands for systemic change. The mural project, launched by Intercom CEO Eoghan McCabe with an initial $500,000 pledge offering $10,000 grants to artists, gained significant momentum with Musk’s contribution. Now, Hurts, a Pro Bowl quarterback who led the Eagles to a Super Bowl LIX victory in 2024, has stepped forward with his $360,000 donation, announced on September 11, 2025. His commitment reflects a deep empathy for Zarutska’s story, inspired by her courage as a refugee fleeing war-torn Ukraine.

Hurts, known for his leadership on and off the field with 12,146 passing yards and 76 touchdowns through the 2024 season, shared his heartfelt motivation in a statement:
“I hope my contribution can shine a light on the refugee community and support victims. This is a real issue we’ve got to tackle, and I’m praying for better days so no one else has to face a tragedy like hers.”

His donation will help fund vibrant murals in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Charlotte, transforming public spaces into tributes to Zarutska’s resilience. The campaign has already drawn over 1,000 artists and raised more than $2.5 million, including pledges from other high-profile figures. McCabe praised Hurts’ involvement, saying, “Jalen’s voice brings tremendous energy to our mission to honor Iryna and address the systems that failed her.”

Eagles fans and the broader NFL community have celebrated Hurts’ philanthropy on X, with many noting how his donation aligns with his off-field efforts through the Jalen Hurts Foundation, which supports youth and underserved communities. As the Eagles prepare for their Week 2 showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs on September 14, 2025, Hurts’ commitment to Zarutska’s legacy underscores his role as a leader beyond football. This collaboration with Musk and McCabe ensures that Zarutska’s memory will inspire hope and action nationwide, turning her story into a catalyst for change.