San Antonio police are urging residents to take extra precautions when buying or selling items through online marketplaces after a June robbery left a father and son seriously injured.
SAPD Property Crimes Detective J. Portillo told KENS 5 that online marketplace transactions can create opportunities for criminals targeting unsuspecting buyers and sellers.
“Don’t believe it can’t happen to you,” Portillo said. “Don’t believe your situation is unique and you won’t be the one that’s victimized.”
The warning comes after investigators said a San Antonio man arranged to purchase a gold Cuban chain listed on OfferUp for $1,350. According to an arrest warrant, the man and his father met the sellers on Baywell Drive in June. After inspecting the jewelry, the buyer returned to his vehicle to retrieve the cash when the meeting turned into an armed robbery.
Police said one suspect pointed a gun at the buyer’s head and demanded the money before a second suspect pulled out another firearm. Gunfire erupted, leaving the son shot twice in the leg with a broken femur. His father was shot multiple times, including in the face, shoulder, hand and leg.
Portillo encouraged buyers and sellers to research accounts before agreeing to meet, including checking how long an account has been active and whether it has an established history or reviews. He also advised buyers to ask questions about items for sale, such as requesting serial numbers or questioning prices that seem unusually low.
For sellers, Portillo warned against sharing personal information or inviting strangers to a home for a transaction.
Instead, police recommend meeting during daylight hours in public places with surveillance cameras. Designated safe exchange locations are available at QuikTrip gas stations across San Antonio and at SAPD substations.
“If someone refuses to meet at a safe location, that’s a warning sign,” Portillo told KENS 5.
Police also cautioned buyers that deeply discounted items could be stolen property. Even if purchased unknowingly, stolen items can be recovered by law enforcement, leaving buyers without the merchandise or their money.
Ultimately, Portillo said no purchase is worth risking personal safety.
“Don’t risk your life over whatever your item is or the money,” he said. “Just walk away.”