Crime
Madison Abundant Life Christian School shooter used a 9mm pistol
At least 3 individuals, including the suspected juvenile shooter, have been killed, and others injured.

Authorities have confirmed that three individuals, including the suspected shooter, are dead following a tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, on Monday.
Several others sustained injuries during the incident, which occurred in the final week of classes before the school’s Christmas break.
According to law enforcement, the suspect, described as a juvenile, opened fire on the school campus, killing two individuals before losing their own life.
Authorities have not yet released details about the victims as they work to notify their families.
Investigators believe the suspected shooter used a 9mm handgun during the attack, a law enforcement official disclosed on condition of anonymity, as they were not authorized to speak publicly about the ongoing investigation.
Early reports had indicated five fatalities, but Madison Police clarified that three individuals, including the shooter, are deceased. Police Chief Shon F. Barnes noted that discrepancies in early fatality counts are not uncommon in mass shooting situations, as investigators work to gather accurate information and assess injuries.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is assisting local law enforcement, with agents on the scene supporting the investigation.
Abundant Life Christian School is a nondenominational private institution serving approximately 390 students from kindergarten through 12th grade, according to its website. The school is well-known in the community for its faith-based curriculum and close-knit environment.
Local and federal law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the incident, and authorities have urged the public to avoid the area surrounding the school. Families of students have been directed to a reunification center established at the SSM Health/Dean Clinic on Stoughton Road.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” said Chief Barnes. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones affected by this incident. Our officers and investigators are working tirelessly to determine what led to this senseless act of violence.”
Authorities have yet to disclose a motive for the shooting or additional details about the suspect. Police are continuing to process the scene, interview witnesses, and collect evidence.
The community remains in shock as they await further updates on the investigation. More information will be released as it 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.