Crime
24-Year-Old Jahkeem Douglas Killed in Shooting During Music Video Filming on Illinois Street in Rochester
The four surviving victims, aged 19, 20, 22, and 30, sustained varying injuries. One remains in critical condition, while the others are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
A music video shoot meant to honor a slain individual turned tragic late Tuesday night, as gunfire erupted, leaving one person dead and four others injured.
The Rochester Police Department (RPD) detailed the incident during a press conference on Wednesday.
The shooting occurred around 10:30 p.m. at a rented residence on Illinois Street, where a group had gathered to film a music video in remembrance of DeAndre Jenkins, who was killed on June 11, 2019.
Approximately 20 to 30 people were present when gunfire broke out, with an estimated 20 rounds fired by multiple weapons.
RPD Captain Ryan Tauriello stated that officers initially responded to reports of gunfire at the residence.
Shortly after, four shooting victims arrived at Rochester General Hospital via private transportation. Officers on-site then discovered a fifth victim, who was transported to the University of Rochester Medical Center by ambulance.
The deceased victim was identified as 24-year-old Jahkeem Douglas, who succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The four surviving victims, aged 19, 20, 22, and 30, sustained varying injuries. One remains in critical condition, while the others are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries, according to officials.
Rochester Mayor Malik Evans addressed the shooting during the press conference, emphasizing the senselessness of the violence.
“This is why we’re standing here today, and we shouldn’t be. Totally preventable, totally unnecessary, totally senseless, and total nonsense,” Evans said. He called for collective community efforts to disrupt violence before it occurs, highlighting the need for collaboration rather than reliance on government programs or quick fixes.
The Major Crimes Unit is leading the investigation, which remains active. Authorities have not yet disclosed information regarding potential suspects or motives.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted by contacting 911, emailing majorcrimes@cityofrochester.gov, or calling Crime Stoppers at 585-423-9300.
The tragic incident underscores the continued struggle against gun violence in Rochester and the broader community’s efforts to prevent future tragedies.
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.