Crime
4 people found shot dead on a Chicago Transit Authority train in Forest Park
A horrific incident unfolded on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line early Monday morning, resulting in the tragic deaths of four people.
Forest Park Police received a distressing 911 call just before 5:30 a.m., reporting multiple gunshot victims aboard a train at the Forest Park station. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered the bodies of three victims. A fourth victim was rushed to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood but was later pronounced dead.
The alleged gunman was not present at the scene when police arrived, having successfully escaped. However, utilizing surveillance footage, authorities were able to identify a suspect.
Chicago police subsequently apprehended a person matching the suspect’s description on a CTA Pink Line train. A firearm was recovered during the arrest, although it has not been confirmed whether it is the weapon used in the killings.
Due to the ongoing police investigation, Blue Line service between Forest Park and Austin remained suspended as of 9:45 a.m.
“The CTA is deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred on a Blue Line train early this morning. This was an isolated event, but a heinous and egregious act of violence that should never happen on public transportation. We immediately deployed resources to assist the Forest Park Police Department in their investigation, including reviewing all possible security camera footage. This footage proved vital in aiding law enforcement. We commend both the Forest Park Police Department for their thorough investigation and collaboration, and the Chicago Police Department for their swift response that led to the apprehension of a suspect. The CTA will continue to work closely with local law enforcement as the investigation progresses.”
We are actively investigating this matter and appreciate the collaboration with the Chicago Police Department. Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to contact the Forest Park Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at (708)366-2425 or email at Detectives@ForestPark.net.
Crime
Security guard Yahaira Melendez charged with murder after shooting inside IHOP restaurant in Center City Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA, PA — A security guard has been arrested and charged with murder following a fatal shooting at a Center City IHOP over the weekend that left a 43-year-old man dead.
The incident occurred shortly after 11 p.m. on Saturday at the IHOP located in the 1300 block of Walnut Street, according to the Philadelphia Police Department.
When officers arrived, they discovered a man suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. The victim, who police say was unhoused, was transported to Jefferson Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators report that the victim had been causing a disturbance inside the restaurant prior to the shooting. As security personnel escorted him outside, he allegedly turned and spat on one of the guards.
That guard, identified as 38-year-old Yahaira Melendez, allegedly responded by drawing her firearm and shooting the victim once in the head.
Police say preliminary findings indicate the victim was not armed at the time of the incident.
Melendez, a mother of three, was taken into custody and has been charged with murder and related offenses.
In a statement Melendez’s family expressed shock and disbelief over the situation, writing in part:
“We are shocked and devastated by the tragic events that occurred at the IHOP while she was working security. We know she would never harm anyone unless she felt she had no other choice to protect herself or others.”
The shooting has left nearby workers and residents shaken.
“Escalation — where was the escalation?” asked Karr Anderson, who works next door to the restaurant. “Security guards need to know how to withhold, how to show restraint.”
Philadelphia Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including whether proper security protocols were followed and what led to the use of deadly force.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased pending family notification.