Ukrainian Refugee Killed in North Carolina; Ex-Boyfriend Charged.

Ukrainian Refugee Murdered in North Carolina

According to Novyny.live: A 21-year-old Ukrainian refugee, Kateryna Tovmash, was killed in North Carolina on February 14. The suspect in her murder is her 25-year-old former boyfriend, Caleb Hayden Fosno.

Caleb Fosno, who had traveled from Ohio, forced his way into the residence where Kateryna was staying. According to witness accounts, he shot and killed her while she was asleep in bed and also shot her current boyfriend, who was beside her. Fosno fled the scene but was later apprehended. He now faces two counts of first-degree murder.

“He forced one of our brothers and sisters to wake her, and then he shot her in her bed, taking her life. He also shot her boyfriend, who was sleeping next to her.”

Mykhailo Tovmash, the victim's brother

This tragedy has sparked outrage within the Ukrainian community. Kateryna Tovmash's death is not an isolated incident of violence against Ukrainian refugees. In September of last year, a 16-year-old Ukrainian refugee girl was killed in Germany. In August 2025, another 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, Iryna Zarutska, died in North Carolina.

Danylo Hetmantsev, a representative of Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has called on colleagues to hold immediate consultations with American partners to ensure a swift and impartial investigation of this crime and to hold the perpetrator accountable. This case underscores the urgent need to protect the rights and safety of refugees, particularly amid rising violence.

Reaction to the Killing of Kateryna Tovmash

The murder of Kateryna Tovmash has drawn a strong response not only from the Ukrainian diaspora but also internationally, highlighting the ongoing problem of violence against refugees. There has been a noticeable increase in aggressive acts targeting Ukrainian refugees, pointing to a critical need for enhanced protective measures and support for vulnerable groups.

The investigation into this crime could become a significant step in combating violence and discrimination against refugees in the United States and other countries. This case brings into sharp focus the specific vulnerabilities faced by refugees who have fled conflict, only to encounter danger in their places of refuge.