Crime
Whitehaven Shooting Leaves One Dead, Another Critically Injured
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or provided information regarding a possible suspect or motive.
Memphis, TN — A shooting on Wednesday night in the Whitehaven area has claimed the life of one man and left a woman in critical condition, according to the Memphis Police Department.
Officers were dispatched around 7:00 p.m. to the intersection of East Shelby Drive and Faronia Road following reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, they found a woman suffering from gunshot wounds. She was immediately transported to Regional One Hospital for treatment.
Initially listed in non-critical condition, her status later worsened to critical.
Meanwhile, a second victim, a man, was brought to Methodist South Hospital by private vehicle before officers arrived on the scene.
Despite efforts by medical staff, he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or provided information regarding a possible suspect or motive.
Investigators are actively working to determine the events that led to the shooting.
The Memphis Police Department is appealing to the public for any information that could assist in the investigation. Those with details are urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH. Anonymous tips are welcome, and a reward may be offered for information leading to an arrest.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
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.