Crime
City of Monroe Police currently investigating a shooting involving a minor sustained fatal injuries
The City of Monroe Police Department is investigating a tragic shooting incident involving a minor, which took place on the 400 block of Borgess Street during the early afternoon hours on Wednesday, November 13.
Authorities have confirmed that the minor sustained fatal injuries and was the sole individual involved in the incident.
In respect of the family and due to the sensitive nature of the case, no further details are being disclosed at this time.
The Monroe Police Department assures the community that it is committing all necessary resources to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.
The police department expressed its condolences to the victim’s family and is asking anyone who may have information that could assist the investigation to come forward.
Those with relevant information are encouraged to reach out to Detective Alexander McKenzie at 734-243-7517. The community’s cooperation and patience are appreciated as law enforcement continues its efforts to bring clarity to this situation.
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.