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.
HARRIS COUNTY, TX — A juvenile male was shot and killed in the Northwest Park area, prompting an active investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
Deputies responded at approximately 2:15 p.m. to reports of a shooting at a residential complex located at 10155 Bammel North Houston Road, near North Houston Rosslyn and Fallbrook Drive.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered a juvenile Hispanic male suffering from a gunshot wound.
Despite attempts by first responders to perform CPR and lifesaving measures, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives from the Homicide Division, led by Detective Jason Brown, responded to conduct the investigation.
Based on initial witness statements, deputies were able to detain a 15-year-old male suspect believed to be involved in the incident.
According to preliminary findings, investigators believe the shooting may have occurred during a possible drug-related transaction.
At this stage, no additional suspects are believed to be involved.
Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) are processing evidence, while detectives continue to review surveillance footage from the apartment complex and interview witnesses.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been formally confirmed, though authorities believe they have located potential family members.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.