MANASSAS, Va. — A recent shooting in Manassas is a stark reminder of the dangers that can come with meeting strangers for social media sales. On Saturday afternoon, a 19-year-old man was shot during an attempted sale of shoes. The exchange, which took place in the parking lot of the 11100 block of Bulloch Drive, ended in violence when a struggle ensued between the seller and the buyer. The suspect drove away from the shooting in a black Infiniti G37, leaving the other man injured in the parking lot.
Officers with the Prince William County Police Department responded to the call just after 3:30 p.m. and launched an investigation. Officers learned that the victim had arranged to meet an unknown party to sell shoes through social media. What began as a routine sale quickly turned dangerous when the buyer shot the victim in the upper body after meeting up. The suspect quickly drove away from the shooting toward I-66. Police are still searching for the car he was in.
Though the victim survived, this shooting highlights the dangers of meeting strangers for online purchases without taking precautions. In recent years, many law enforcement agencies have designated safe exchange zones—public locations, often at police stations, equipped with surveillance cameras to provide a secure environment for transactions like these. These zones are intended to reduce the risks that come with buying or selling items through platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or other social media sites.
Why use a safe exchange zone?
Public and monitored: Safe exchange zones are typically located in public spaces like police department parking lots, reducing the likelihood of a crime taking place.
Surveillance cameras: Many of these areas are under video surveillance, adding an extra layer of security for both parties.
Police nearby: Being near a police station or precinct can act as a deterrent for anyone with bad intentions, increasing the chance of a safe transaction.
Prince William County, like many other jurisdictions, offers safe exchange zones for these types of meetings.
Safety tips for selling items online:
- Meet in a safe exchange zone: Always use a well-lit, public, and monitored space for online transactions.
- Bring a friend: Never go alone, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, cancel the exchange. No sale is worth risking your safety.
- Avoid cash transactions: Consider using secure, digital payment methods to reduce the amount of cash you carry.
As police continue their investigation into the shooting, this incident should serve as a wake-up call for anyone engaging in online sales to prioritize their safety. To find a safe exchange zone near you, contact your local law enforcement agency or visit their website for details.
