Crime
Tiffany Sillero dead after accidental shooting at gas station in San Marcos
Tiffany was with her toddler at the time the shooting happened.
SAN MARCOS, Texas — The San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) is investigating an accidental shooting that resulted in the death of a woman on Friday afternoon, according to an official statement released on social media.
Authorities reported that the incident occurred around 4:00 p.m. at a gas station located near the intersection of Redwood Road and Highway 123.
The victim, identified as Tiffany Marie Sillero, was accompanied by her toddler at the time of the shooting, according to a police spokesperson.
Law enforcement emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public stemming from the incident.
SMPD officers and investigators responded promptly to the scene, where they secured the area and began collecting evidence to determine the circumstances leading to the accidental discharge.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not released additional details.
The San Marcos Police Department has not yet indicated if any charges will be filed. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
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.