Crime
37-year-old Christopher Pilgreen found shot to death outside Outlaw Jacks bar in Liberty
The Liberty Police Department is actively investigating the shooting death of Christopher Lynn Pilgreen, 37, of Hull, Texas, who was found deceased outside Outlaw Jack’s Bar at 3216 Beaumont Avenue in Liberty.
Officers responded to a 911 call reporting a possible shooting just before midnight on Thursday, Dec. 12.
Upon their arrival, law enforcement discovered Pilgreen lying face down on the concrete outside the establishment. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have classified this as an active investigation and are pursuing multiple leads to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The Liberty Police Department is working diligently to identify any potential suspects and determine a motive for the crime.
Police are urging anyone with information related to this incident to come forward. Individuals who may have witnessed the events leading up to the shooting or have any details that could assist investigators are encouraged to contact the Liberty Police Department at (936) 336-5666.
The Liberty Police Department thanks the community for their cooperation and support as they work to bring clarity and justice to this tragic case. Further updates will be provided as new 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.