Crime
Victim killed in shooting near TSU homecoming identified as 24-year-old Vonquae Johnson
Nine individuals were injured in the shooting, including bystanders.
A tragic shooting incident occurred near Tennessee State University on Saturday, resulting in the death of a 24-year-old and injuries to several others.
The Metro Nashville Police Department has identified the victim as Vonquae Johnson, who succumbed to her injuries on Sunday afternoon.
The shooting took place at the intersection of Jefferson Street and 27th Avenue North, just as the university was celebrating its homecoming.
The football game against Eastern Illinois University at Nissan Stadium was scheduled for 5 p.m.
Nine individuals were injured in the shooting, including bystanders.
Authorities transported five victims to local hospitals using Nashville Fire Department vehicles, while five others arrived at the hospital by private transportation. Among the injured were three juveniles.
Two of the victims, believed to be involved in the shooting, refused to cooperate with police investigators.
The incident has prompted strong condemnation from law enforcement officials.
MNPD spokesperson Don Aaron expressed frustration and disappointment, stating, “It’s not a good thing when a handful of people can cause disruption for the entire community. This type of gun violence has got to stop. We didn’t expect this to happen here with all the law enforcement and safety people here. There were police officers and firefighters everywhere.”
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible.
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.