Crime
30-year-old Quinton Gray killed after shooting on Sweet Amy Lane in La Grange
Preliminary evidence suggests that this was a targeted act of violence.
La Grange, North Carolina – In the early hours of Sunday, December 8, 2024, deputies from the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office responded to a tragic incident involving a fatal shooting at a residence on Sweet Amy Lane.
At approximately 12:15 a.m., deputies arrived at 943 Sweet Amy Lane following reports of a gunshot victim.
Upon entering the residence, authorities discovered 30-year-old Quinton Lee Gray lying unresponsive. Gray had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency responders.
Sheriff Jackie Rogers confirmed that investigators are actively working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Preliminary evidence suggests that this was a targeted act of violence, and authorities have emphasized that there is no immediate danger to the general public.
“Our investigators are diligently pursuing leads and working to identify those responsible for this senseless act,” said Sheriff Rogers. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Gray during this heartbreaking time.”
The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone with information related to this case to come forward. Tips can be reported by contacting the LCSO Criminal Investigations Division at 252-559-6118. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Lenoir County Crime Stoppers hotline at 252-523-4444.
Authorities have assured the public that they are committed to maintaining safety in the community and will provide updates as more details emerge.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Further information will be released as it 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.