Crime
Lakeview Middle-High School on lockdown after small caliber bullets found in a restroom
The individual responsible for the incident has been identified.
Lakeview Middle-High School was placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure following the discovery of small caliber bullets in a restroom. However, a comprehensive investigation has determined that there was no immediate threat to the safety of students or staff.
The school lockdown has been lifted, and normal operations have resumed. The individual responsible for the incident has been identified thanks to the swift actions of school police officers and administrators.
At no time were any students, staff, or community members in danger. The school took immediate steps to ensure the safety of everyone on campus.
The district would like to commend the collaborative efforts of school personnel and law enforcement in resolving the situation. The safety of students and staff remains the top priority, and the district appreciates the professionalism and quick response of all involved.
The district also addresses the issue of misinformation that was spread on social media during the investigation. While understanding the community’s concern, the district urges everyone to refrain from sharing unverified information online. Such actions can create unnecessary alarm, hinder investigations, and delay the resolution of incidents.
Lakeview School District remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment and will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure the well-being of all students and staff.
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.