Full Breakdown
Tragic Double Homicide of Ukrainian Refugee and Soldier in North Carolina
2/16/2026, 9:26:32 PM
Overview of the Incident
On February 14, 2026, a double homicide occurred in Woodlake, North Carolina, resulting in the deaths of 21-year-old Ukrainian refugee Kateryna Tovmash and her boyfriend, 28-year-old Matthew Wade, an active-duty soldier stationed at Fort Bragg. The suspect, Tovmash's ex-boyfriend, 25-year-old Caleb Hayden Fosnaugh, allegedly traveled approximately 500 miles from Ohio to commit the crime. Reports indicate that Fosnaugh broke into Tovmash's home, where she was caring for her younger siblings, and forced one of them to wake her before fatally shooting both victims in their bed.
Details of the Crime
Law enforcement responded to a shooting report around 7:45 AM and discovered Tovmash and Wade deceased inside the residence. According to Tovmash's brother, Mykhailo Tovmash, Fosnaugh's actions were premeditated, as he had driven for seven hours to confront Tovmash. After the shooting, he fled the scene in a white 2018 Ford Mustang but was later apprehended in Ohio. He faces charges of two counts of murder and breaking and entering.
Context of Violence Against Ukrainian Refugees
This incident marks the second violent death of a Ukrainian refugee in North Carolina within six months. In August 2025, 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska was fatally stabbed while riding a light rail train in Charlotte. Her murder, attributed to a man with a history of violent crime, sparked national outrage and discussions about public safety for refugees.
Official Statements
Moore County Sheriff Ronnie Fields described the incident as a "tragic and senseless loss of life," expressing condolences to the victims' families. The sheriff's office coordinated with multiple law enforcement agencies to capture Fosnaugh swiftly. Family members of the victims have expressed their grief on social media, with Wade's sister, Megan Wade, highlighting her brother's kindness and urging support for Tovmash's family through a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses.
Criticism & Opposition
The repeated violence against Ukrainian refugees in North Carolina has raised concerns among community members and advocates. Mykhailo Tovmash emphasized the alarming trend, stating, "This is the second time in the past year when a Ukrainian woman who is a refugee and is hiding for safety in North Carolina gets murdered by a man." This sentiment reflects broader fears regarding the safety of vulnerable populations in the U.S.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the core details of the incident are consistent across sources, discrepancies exist regarding the timeline of events and the exact motivations behind Fosnaugh's actions. Some reports suggest a history of jealousy, while others focus on the broader implications of violence against refugees.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a tragic and senseless loss of life,” — Ronnie Fields, Moore County Sheriff
- “I am thankful the (suspect) didn’t touch any of my younger siblings who were at the house during that time.” — Mykhailo Tovmash, Brother of Kateryna Tovmash
- “Life is so unfair. No one should ever get a call saying their loved one was murdered. Especially not over something as small as jealousy.” — Megan Wade, Sister of Matthew Wade
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event remains active, as authorities work to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
