Crime
44-year-old Quaynell King killed after shooting on Versailles Road in Lexington
The Fayette County Coroner has identified the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred Sunday night in the 1800 block of Versailles Road as 44-year-old Quaynell King.
According to the coroner’s report, King’s death has been ruled a homicide. The Lexington Police Department is actively investigating the incident.
Officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area at approximately 8:43 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered evidence of shots fired.
Shortly thereafter, authorities were informed that a gunshot victim had arrived at a local hospital with severe injuries. The victim was later identified as Quaynell King, who succumbed to his injuries.
Police have confirmed they are treating the incident as a homicide. However, there are no suspects identified or in custody at this time.
Residents in the area may notice a continued police presence as detectives gather evidence and canvass for witnesses.
The Lexington Police Department encourages anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Tips can be provided by contacting the department directly or through their anonymous tip line.
Further updates, including additional details from the coroner, are expected as the investigation progresses.
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.