Crime
21-year-old Vance Stiers killed after shooting in Columbus, potentially linked to robbery
Police have not yet released any information about potential suspects.
Columbus, OH – Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred Saturday night on the city’s Southeast Side, possibly connected to a robbery.
Columbus police responded to a report of a shooting at the intersection of Aplin Drive and Penton Street around 8:40 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers discovered 21-year-old Vance Stiers suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency medical personnel transported Stiers to Mount Carmel East Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:52 p.m.
Preliminary investigations suggest the shooting may have taken place in the 7100 block of Tussing Road, near Tussing Elementary School, and is believed to be linked to a possible robbery.
Police have not yet released any information about potential suspects.
“Robbery appears to be a possible motive at this stage of the investigation,” a Columbus Police spokesperson said.
The incident remains under active investigation by the Columbus Police Department. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
Individuals can contact Columbus police at 614-645-2040 or provide anonymous tips through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477.
This marks a somber moment for the local community, as police continue their efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
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.