Crime
28-year-old Nick Rodela-Garcia killed after shooting near C C’s Bar & Grill in Lubbock
According to the initial findings, Rodela-Garcia became involved in a verbal dispute with another individual at the bar.
LUBBOCK, TX — The Lubbock Police Department’s Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit is investigating a fatal shooting that claimed the life of 28-year-old Nick Rodela-Garcia early Friday morning.
Authorities were called to the scene at 1:29 a.m. after reports of gunfire at a bar located in the 1600 block of 50th Street.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Rodela-Garcia suffering from severe injuries.
Emergency medical personnel transported him to University Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
According to the initial findings, Rodela-Garcia became involved in a verbal dispute with another individual at the bar.
The argument escalated into a physical altercation, during which the suspect retrieved a firearm and shot Rodela-Garcia.
The Lubbock Police Department issued an official statement late Friday morning confirming the fatal shooting and emphasizing that the investigation remains ongoing.
Detectives are actively working to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and identify the suspect involved.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward to aid in the investigation. Tips can be submitted by contacting the Lubbock Police Department or calling Crime Line at (806) 741-1000.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
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.