VASS, N.C. — The local Ukrainian community is grappling with an unbearable tragedy after the recent murder of Katya Tovmash, a 21-year-old woman, and her boyfriend, Matthew Wade, a 28-year-old soldier stationed at Fort Bragg. The couple was allegedly shot by Tovmash’s ex-boyfriend in their Moore County home on Valentine’s Day, leaving friends and family in shock and mourning.
Kiril Pryshchepchuk and Tovmash shared a lifelong friendship, having grown up together in Ukraine, where they attended school and church. Both fled their homeland amidst the ongoing conflict following Russia’s invasion. In separate conversations, they formed plans to start a new life in the United States, seeking safety and stability.
Pryshchepchuk received the heartbreaking news of Tovmash’s death from her brother. “I lost my best friend, the person I grew up with,” he expressed, unable to comprehend the senseless nature of the violence that took her life. He emphasized that nobody should face such danger while seeking refuge and stability.
The tragic event has resonated deeply within the Ukrainian refugee community, particularly following the murder of another Ukrainian, Iryna Zarutska, who was fatally attacked on a train in Charlotte more than six months prior. The consecutive incidents have heightened fears among members of the community, raising concerns about their safety.
As they navigate their grief, Tovmash’s friends and family have expressed their sorrow and disbelief. Tovmash was known for her nurturing spirit, especially toward her younger siblings. She supported them through their challenges and shared a close bond with them. “She had an exceptional love for her siblings that extended to everyone around her,” Pryshchepchuk noted.
The alleged assailant, Caleb Fosnaugh, 25, has been arrested in Ohio following the incident. The motive remains unclear, adding to the anguish experienced by her loved ones. “It doesn’t matter what the reasons were; this violence is unacceptable,” Pryshchepchuk remarked.
Amid the deep sadness, an online fundraiser has gained traction, raising over $20,000 to assist Tovmash’s family with burial expenses. Plans are underway to bring her body to Utah for interment. Her family released a heartfelt statement expressing their heartbreak and love for Tovmash and Wade, stressing the importance of embracing love and forgiveness in the face of their grief.
As the community comes to terms with this reality, many are reflecting on the significance of love and the preciousness of life. Pryshchepchuk shared his concerns about the safety of women in North Carolina, noting that this incident marks the second murder of a woman in just seven months. “These events leave an unsettling feeling within us,” he added.
The loss of Tovmash and Wade serves as a tragic reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the collective struggles faced by those who seek refuge and safety from violence. The community’s resilience will be tested as they continue to support one another during this haunting time.