Crime
Multiple people shot after active shooter incident in Laurel County
Authorities are responding to reports of a mass shooting incident along Interstate 75 in Laurel County, near Exit 49.
According to initial reports, shots were fired from a wooded area, striking multiple vehicles on the highway.
London Mayor Randall Weddle has confirmed that there are multiple victims, though the exact number and their conditions have not yet been released. Emergency responders are currently on the scene providing medical assistance.
Due to the ongoing investigation, Interstate 75 is closed in both directions between [Exit numbers]. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Law enforcement agencies, including local, state, and potentially federal authorities, are actively working to contain the situation and apprehend the suspect. The motive and number of individuals involved remain under investigation.
Residents in the vicinity of the incident are advised to stay indoors, remain vigilant, and follow updates from local law enforcement.
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.