Crime
Video shows moments 15-year-old shot in bathroom at Joppatowne High School
The suspect was a relatively new student at Joppatowne High School.
A tragic shooting incident occurred at Joppatowne High School involving two students. A 16-year-old student opened fire on a 15-year-old classmate during a confrontation in the men’s restroom, leaving the victim seriously injured.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the school and sought refuge in the neighborhood, banging on doors and prompting numerous concerned citizens to call 911.
The Harford County Sheriff’s Office commended the community for their immediate response and assistance in apprehending the suspect.
The sheriff revealed that the suspect was a relatively new student at Joppatowne High School, having only recently enrolled.
While he could not confirm whether the suspect had a prior juvenile criminal record, the sheriff acknowledged that the individual was known to law enforcement.
There had been previous reports and incidents involving the suspect, but the sheriff declined to disclose specific details.
The sheriff expressed frustration with the Maryland Child Interrogation Protection Act, criticizing its restrictions on questioning juvenile suspects.
He described the current situation as “absurd,” emphasizing the importance of allowing law enforcement to promptly interview individuals involved in serious crimes.
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.