Crime
Suspect Joshua Voigt arrested after fatally shot his father and injured his mother on Highland Boulevard in Bartow
Records indicate that Joshua Voigt has a history of violent offenses.
UPDATE: Suspect Joseph Voigt, who shot and killed his father and shot his mother has been arrested by the Orlando Police Department and is in custody in Orange County. He has two charges as of now.
Bartow, FL – On Saturday, December 7, 2024, at approximately 11:18 p.m., first responders received a distressing 911 call reporting a gunshot victim with multiple wounds on Highland Boulevard. The caller, however, could not provide the precise location of the suspect.
Authorities later identified the suspect as Joshua Voigt, who allegedly fatally shot his father and critically injured his mother in a domestic incident.
Both victims were transported to Lakeland Regional Hospital for emergency medical care. Tragically, Voigt’s father succumbed to his injuries.
Records indicate that Joshua Voigt has a history of violent offenses.
On November 30, 2024, he was arrested for battery/assault but was released on bond.
Additionally, in October 2023, Voigt was arrested for firing a weapon in a residential neighborhood. He was also released on bond for that charge, which remains an active court case.
At 11:32 p.m., the suspect’s vehicle—a silver or gray Toyota Corolla with black rims and tinted windows—was spotted traveling northbound on Highway 17 near Lake Ship.
Responding to the developing situation, deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, officers from the Winter Haven Police Department, and Polk County’s helicopter and K-9 units quickly initiated a search for the vehicle in the surrounding area.
Despite their efforts, the vehicle evaded detection in the Bartow area. However, at 12:24 a.m., the suspect’s car was reportedly seen near Orlando, prompting coordination with the Orlando Police Department to extend the search efforts.
Law enforcement officials are urging the public not to approach the suspect or the vehicle. Voigt is considered armed and dangerous.
Description of the Vehicle
- Make and Model: Toyota Corolla
- Color: Silver/Gray
- Distinguishing Features: Black rims and tinted windows
Authorities continue their search for the suspect, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
If you have information about Joshua Voigt’s whereabouts or spot the described vehicle, please contact law enforcement immediately. Dial 911 or reach out to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
The safety of the community remains the highest priority. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly.
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.