Crime
Victim killed in shooting at Woodforest Bank inside Lumberton Walmart identified as Brandy Olson
The suspect fled the scene immediately following the shooting.
Lumberton, NC – A tragic shooting at the Lumberton Super Walmart on Fayetteville Road Friday afternoon claimed the life of a woman, according to authorities.
The victim has been identified as Brandy Olson.
Officers responded to the scene at approximately 3:45 p.m. following reports of gunfire inside the store.
According to early accounts, a man entered the Walmart and targeted Olson near the Woodforest Bank inside the building.
Witnesses stated that bystanders attempted life-saving measures until emergency responders arrived.
Olson was transported to UNC Health Southeastern but tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly thereafter.
The suspect fled the scene immediately following the shooting.
Authorities have not disclosed additional details about the suspect’s identity or motive but confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.
Police stated there are no indications that anyone else was injured during the incident.
The Lumberton Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Individuals with details are asked to contact Sgt. Blake Harrell at 910-671-3845.
This remains an active investigation, and 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.