Crime
Walmart selling shirts under “Kirk Shooter” that resemble what assassin Tyler Robinson wore
UPDATE: Walmart has now remove the “Kirk Shooter” keyword t-shirts from the store.
Walmart is facing sharp criticism after listings surfaced online advertising clothing under the label “Kirk Shooter” that closely resembles the outfit worn by Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old accused assassin in the September 10 killing of activist Charlie Kirk.
The revelations came as newly obtained surveillance footage shed light on a separate but related incident involving the desecration of a memorial for Kirk outside Turning Point USA headquarters.
Authorities confirmed that 19-year-old Ryder Corral has been arrested and charged with criminal damage and disorderly conduct after he was recorded deliberately vandalizing the tribute.
The footage shows Corral, dressed in clothing nearly identical to that worn by Robinson during the attack — same shirt, pants, and shoes — storming the memorial.
Video evidence shows Corral aggressively kicking over flowers, vases, flags, and balloons, advancing roughly 15 yards into the tribute area before being subdued by bystanders and handed over to police.
Law enforcement has verified Corral’s identity and confirmed the charges filed against him.
The incident has drawn outrage from mourners and community leaders, who say the vandalism compounded the grief of those already devastated by Kirk’s death.
“A memorial is a place where people bring flowers, prayers, tears, and memories,” one community member said. “To walk into that space and stomp on it is cruel on a level that words can hardly cover. A family is mourning. Friends and supporters are mourning. Instead of allowing them that sacred space, someone chose to destroy it.”
The controversy surrounding Walmart’s listings has added to tensions, with many accusing the retailer of insensitivity and profiting off tragedy. While the company has not yet issued a public response, calls are mounting for the immediate removal of the products and a formal apology.
Observers warn that the convergence of Robinson’s alleged actions, Corral’s memorial desecration, and the commercialization of related imagery underscores a troubling erosion of respect and civility in public discourse.
“We can debate ideas, we can challenge one another’s views,” the community member added. “But when even a memorial isn’t safe from hate, it shows how much humanity is being lost.”
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.