Crime
Kenton Ridge High School student 15-year-old Raymond Estep killed in accidental shooting
A visitation has been arranged to honor the memory of Raymond Estep, a 15-year-old student from Kenton Ridge High School, who tragically lost his life in an accidental shooting on Saturday night.
Ray, who was active on his school’s bowling team, passed away following the incident.
The Littleton & Rue Funeral Home has shared a tribute on its website, commemorating Ray’s life and contributions to his school community.
On Saturday, at approximately 6:37 p.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputies and emergency responders were dispatched to the 4400 block of Reno Road.
According to authorities, a group of teenagers was gathered together when the shooting occurred, which has been described as an unfortunate act of horseplay involving a firearm.
Lieutenant Kristopher Schultz from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office explained that a 16-year-old, who had been invited as a guest, brought a gun to the gathering.
Believing the gun was unloaded after removing the magazine, the teen pointed it at Ray and pulled the trigger.
Tragically, a single round remained in the chamber and discharged, striking Ray in the torso.
He was taken to the hospital, but despite medical efforts, Ray succumbed to his injuries around 7:35 p.m.
Visitation for Ray Estep will take place on Sunday, November 17, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Littleton & Rue Funeral Home, with a private service planned for Monday.
Kenton Ridge High School and the surrounding community are grieving deeply over this loss.
The impact has been profound, creating a ripple effect felt by students, staff, and families throughout the close-knit community. In response, Kenton Ridge has activated its Traumatic Event Crisis Intervention Plan (TECIP), bringing in mental health therapists, counselors, and additional support staff to provide guidance and comfort to those affected by this tragedy. The school encourages anyone in need of support to reach out, as they navigate this difficult time together.
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.