Crime
Atascocita High School Student Taken into Police Custody After Gun Discovered in Backpack
The student attempted to flee but was immediately detained by administrators and law enforcement officers.
An Atascocita High School student was taken into police custody and removed from campus after school officials discovered a handgun in the student’s backpack.
The incident unfolded after the administration received information suggesting the possibility of a weapon on campus.
Swift action was taken, and the student was identified and escorted out of class for questioning.
However, during this process, the student attempted to flee but was immediately detained by administrators and law enforcement officers.
The evidence has been handed over to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office for further action.
The student now faces legal consequences and disciplinary measures as outlined by the Humble ISD Student Code of Conduct. In line with district policies and Texas state law, students found bringing weapons to school face expulsion.
The school district emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff.
Administrators highlighted the effectiveness of proactive safety strategies, such as the timely sharing of information, which allowed them to address the situation promptly and without harm to anyone.
Parents, staff, and students are encouraged to report any safety concerns immediately, either directly to school staff, Humble ISD Police at 281-641-7900, or through the Humble ISD iHelp app.
This incident underscores the importance of collaboration between the school community and law enforcement in maintaining a secure educational environment.
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.