Crime
Ruben Johnson killed after shooting on on Amli Way in Augusta
The second victim remains hospitalized and is currently receiving medical care for his injuries.
Richmond County, GA — Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred Friday evening on the 1000 block of Amli Way, leaving one person dead and another injured.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 6:55 p.m.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered two male victims who had both sustained gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services were immediately called to the scene.
The victims were transported to Doctor’s Hospital of Augusta for treatment.
Tragically, one of the victims, identified by the Richmond County Coroner’s Office as Ruben Johnson, a resident of Augusta, was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The second victim remains hospitalized and is currently receiving medical care for his injuries.
Ruben Johnson, 20, was fatally shot on Friday evening at The Jasper apartment complex in Augusta. Richmond County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the incident at approximately 6:55 p.m., according to an official press release.
Authorities have since arrested 68-year-old Earnest Parkman and 21-year-old Jermaine Williams in connection with Johnson’s death. Both suspects face charges of murder, home invasion, and weapon possession.
According to warrants, Parkman and Williams allegedly forced their way into the residence and shot Johnson multiple times before fleeing the scene. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
While Parkman’s mugshot has been made available, authorities have not yet released an image of Williams.
Details surrounding the circumstances of the shooting remain limited, and authorities have not yet released information about any potential suspects or motives.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be reported directly to the sheriff’s office or submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 706-821-1080.
This story is developing, and updates will be provided as more 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.