Crime
25-year-old Christopher Santana killed after shooting on George Street in New Haven
The New Haven Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that claimed the life of a 25-year-old man on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to the rear parking lot of 730 George Street around 3:23 p.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers found an unresponsive man, later identified as Christopher Santana, lying on the ground as a bystander attempted CPR.
Police took over resuscitation efforts until American Medical Response (AMR) personnel arrived and transported Santana to Yale New Haven Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Santana had driven a friend to the parking lot when the pair was approached by two masked individuals.
One of the suspects opened fire, fatally wounding Santana, before both suspects fled the scene on foot.
Detectives are working to determine the motive behind the shooting. While the investigation remains ongoing, early findings suggest this was an isolated incident.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or witnesses to come forward. Individuals can contact New Haven detectives directly at 203-946-6304 or provide anonymous tips through the department’s tip line at 866-888-TIPS (8477).
No further details are available at this time as police continue their investigation.
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.