Crime
15-year-old Timothy Berry killed after shooting in Old Louisville
Timothy’s father, deeply affected by his son’s senseless death, is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of those responsible.
The tragic reality of gun violence in Louisville continues to unfold as the city’s fatal shooting statistics for 2024 climb.
A family in Old Louisville is now grappling with the devastating loss of their 15-year-old son, who was gunned down in broad daylight.
On Wednesday afternoon, around 3:30 PM, LMPD responded to a shooting incident at the intersection of 3rd and St. Catherine Streets.
Upon arrival, officers discovered 15-year-old Timothy Berry lying on the ground, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Timothy, a sophomore at Jeffersontown High School, was walking through Old Louisville to visit his father at his workplace when he was tragically murdered.
The young teen, known for his curly hair, had a passion for his girlfriend, kickboxing, video games, and adventures with his dad. His dream was to become a chef.
Police believe the shooting occurred in the area of Preston Highway and the Outer Loop.
Timothy’s father, deeply affected by his son’s senseless death, is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of those responsible.
The LMPD Homicide Unit is actively investigating the case, but no suspects have been identified at this time.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to contact the police department’s anonymous tip line at 502-574-LMPD (5673) or utilize the online LMPD Crime Tip Portal.
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.