Crime
Wyatt Oser, 8th grader at Trist Middle School killed after accidental shooting in Sand Springs
The St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office is deeply saddened to report the accidental shooting death of a 13-year-old boy on Sunday night.
Sheriff James Pohlmann confirmed that deputies responded to a call around 11:30 pm at a residence located on the 4500 block of East St. Bernard Highway in Meraux.
The young man, identified as Wyatt Oser, an 8th grader at N.P. Trist Middle School, was found with a gunshot wound and rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators believe the shooting was accidental, as Wyatt was handling a firearm when it discharged.
Sheriff Pohlmann expressed his deepest condolences to Wyatt’s family and friends. “This is a tragic loss for the family and our entire community,” he stated.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time.”
N.P. Trist Middle School also released a statement on Facebook, mourning the loss of their student. The school will have their district crisis response team on campus this week, offering grief counseling and support for students and staff.
A Call for Gun Safety
Sheriff Pohlmann emphasized the importance of firearm safety in preventing such tragedies. “Keeping guns securely stored and out of reach, especially in homes with children or young adults, is one of the most effective ways to ensure safety,” he said.
The Sheriff stressed the use of gun safes or affordable gun locks, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidental discharges or unauthorized access. “By taking these simple precautions, you can help protect your loved ones and promote a safer community,” Sheriff Pohlmann concluded.
A Community in Mourning
A GoFundMe page has been created to support the Oser family during this difficult time.
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.