Crime
26-year-old Garrett Jordan arrested and charged in connection to shooting death of 16-year-old Colin Brown
ST. LOUIS, Mo. — An arrest has been made in connection with the tragic death of Colin Brown, a high school hockey player from St. Louis who was fatally struck by gunfire on Interstate 55 in November.
Garrett Jordan III, 26, has been charged with first-degree murder, three counts of armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon, according to authorities.
The shooting occurred on the evening of November 23 as Colin and his father were driving home from a hockey game.
While traveling near Loughborough and Bates on I-55, their vehicle was struck by gunfire. Colin, just 17 years old, was hit by what police described as a “stray bullet.” Despite the family’s immediate efforts to get him medical assistance, Colin succumbed to his injuries four days later.
Court documents indicate that investigators recovered more than 20 cartridge casings at the scene, revealing the use of multiple weapons, including a handgun and a rifle.
The senseless act of violence shocked the St. Louis community, sparking a widespread effort to find the person responsible.
Billboards offering a $25,000 reward for information about the case were installed across the city, highlighting the urgency and public outcry for justice.
Colin’s death has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the broader community. Known for his passion for hockey and his bright future, Colin’s loss is felt deeply by all who knew him.
While Jordan’s arrest marks a step forward in the pursuit of justice, the heartbreak of losing Colin remains raw for his loved ones.
His family and friends continue to mourn the promising young life taken too soon, and the community stands in solidarity with them as they navigate this devastating loss.
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional suspects or charges. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with further information is encouraged to contact law enforcement.
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.