Crime
One injured after shooting outside Wiregrass Commons Mall in Dothan
DOTHAN, AL — Authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred outside the Wiregrass Commons Mall in Dothan on Saturday afternoon, leaving one person injured.
According to Dothan Police Lieutenant Scott Owens, officers responded to reports of gunfire outside the Dillard’s department store entrance shortly after 4:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers located one individual suffering from a gunshot wound.
Early reports suggested that multiple people had been shot; however, Lt. Owens later confirmed that only one victim was involved in the incident.
The extent of the victim’s injuries has not yet been released, and no additional victims have been located.
Police units quickly secured the scene, and the area outside the mall was cordoned off as investigators began collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
As of this time, authorities have not released information regarding a potential suspect or motive.
The investigation remains active, and Dothan Police continue to urge anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the department.
Additional updates will be provided as more 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.