Crime
21-year-old injured in shooting near Patterson Park in Akron
Authorities in Akron are investigating a shooting that left a 21-year-old man injured Sunday afternoon near Patterson Park.
According to a statement from the Akron Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 600 block of Lucille Avenue after receiving reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, they located the victim lying in a field with apparent gunshot wounds.
Police confirmed the recovery of rifle shell casings at the scene but have not yet released information regarding the victim’s current condition.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots.
One individual, who resides near Pitkin Avenue, stated they heard the shots and immediately called 911.
“I was outside hanging Christmas lights when the shots rang out,” the witness said. “Within three to four minutes, I heard the sirens approaching.”
The investigation is ongoing, and police have not released information about potential suspects or a motive at this time.
Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the Akron Police Department. Tips can also be provided anonymously through the Summit County Crime Stoppers at 330-434-COPS (2677).
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.