Crime
32-year-old Jessie Grahnert killed in Topeka shooting

Topeka, KS — Authorities have identified 32-year-old Jessie L. Grahnert of Topeka as the woman who was fatally shot Sunday evening in the 2000 block of North Kansas Avenue.
Officers responded to the scene just after 8:30 p.m. following reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, they found Grahnert, who was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Rosie Nichols, public safety communications specialist for the City of Topeka.
No arrests have been made in connection with Grahnert’s death, and police have yet to release details about potential suspects or motives. The investigation is ongoing, said Nichols.
Topeka Police Lt. Donna Eubanks emphasized the importance of public cooperation in solving the case. “If you have any information about this tragic incident, we urge you to come forward,” she said.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Topeka Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Bureau at 785-368-9400 or email telltpd@topeka.org. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or via their online platform.
Grahnert’s death marks the 19th homicide in Topeka this year, highlighting an ongoing issue of violence in the city. Community leaders are calling for heightened vigilance and cooperation to address the rising crime rate.
As the investigation continues, friends and family of Jessie Grahnert mourn her untimely death, remembering her as part of the Topeka community whose life was tragically cut short. Police are determined to bring closure to her loved ones by identifying those responsible.
Residents are urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity as authorities work to ensure justice is served.
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.