The tragic death of 23-year-old Ukrainian woman Iryna Zarutska in Charlotte has continued to resonate across the sports world. On Wednesday, Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love became the latest NFL star to join Elon Musk in honoring her memory.
Musk earlier pledged $1 million to fund murals of Zarutska across major U.S. cities, supporting an initiative launched by Intercom CEO Eogan McCabe, who committed $500,000 in artist grants for public artwork.
Now, Kansas City Chiefs has pledged a $300,000 personal donation, saying Zarutska’s story reminded him of the responsibility public figures have to speak through action.
“This goes far beyond football — it’s about humanity, love, and standing with someone in their darkest moment. As a team, as a family, we wanted to honor Iryna’s memory and show her loved ones that they are not alone in their pain.”
The tribute follows widespread calls for justice, including former U.S. President Donald Trump demanding the death penalty for suspect Dekarlos Brown, who has been charged with first-degree murder.
For Chiefs, the donation reflects not just leadership on the field but also a sense of duty off it — to stand for humanity and to ensure Zarutska’s memory is honored in ways that inspire unity.