Crime
12-year-old Jeremiah Nelson killed in accidental shooting at James Park Apartments in St. Petersburg
A key focus of the inquiry is determining how the young boy gained access to the firearm.
A tragic accidental shooting claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy at the James Park Apartments in St. Petersburg on Monday evening, according to law enforcement officials.
The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. at the apartment complex located along 3rd Avenue North.
Upon arrival, officers found 12-year-old Jeremiah D. Nelson suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency responders transported him to Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Detectives from the St. Petersburg Police Department have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
A key focus of the inquiry is determining how the young boy gained access to the firearm.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this tragic event to contact the St. Petersburg Police Department as they continue to investigate and work to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of firearm safety and secure storage to protect children and families from preventable 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.