Crime
55-year-old Robert Cummings killed after shooting in front yard of Zebulon home
A tragic shooting in a Zebulon neighborhood early Thanksgiving morning has left a man dead, according to local authorities.
Police were called to the scene around 1:30 a.m. after reports of gunfire on West Barbee Street near Primrose Place.
Upon arrival, officers discovered 55-year-old Robert Cummings unresponsive in his front yard, suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Cummings, who resided on West Barbee Street, was well-known in the area.
Family members expressed their grief, confirming that he had been shot just steps from his home.
The Zebulon Police Department is actively investigating the incident and has urged anyone with information to come forward. Community members are asked to contact the department at 919-823-1818 and request to speak with a Zebulon officer.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not released any details about potential suspects or motives. The loss of Cummings has left his family and neighborhood reeling as they seek answers and justice.
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.