Crime
54-year-old Vernon Johnson killed in shooting started by argument, suspect in custody
Temple, Texas – The Temple Police Department has identified the victim and suspect involved in a fatal shooting that occurred on Wednesday night.
On October 9th, around 7:20 PM, police responded to reports of a shooting in the 700 block of Luna Lane. Upon arrival, officers discovered one person suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Following an investigation, police determined that the victim, Vernon Johnson, 54, had entered his neighbor’s backyard and engaged in an argument with the suspect, David Tate, 52.
During the altercation, Tate shot Johnson multiple times.
Johnson was transported to the hospital in critical condition but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
Tate has been arrested on charges of murder.
An autopsy has been ordered by the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences.
Police confirm that no other injuries were reported and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Temple Police Department at 254-298-5500 or Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477.
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.