A man in Peoria, Illinois, intended to meet a group of people on Monday about purchasing a vehicle. Only, selling him an automobile was the last thing on their minds.
The meeting was around 5 p.m., so at least it was during nominal daylight hours. However, it took place in an alley — likely not the most intelligent place to conduct a transaction with unknown sellers.
Thankfully, the intended victim was a concealed carry permit holder. He and a friend met the group but quickly found themselves in a robbery situation. According to the Peoria Police Department’s Semone Roth, “The investigation has determined that this was an attempted robbery setup and there was no intention to sell a vehicle.”
The intended victim exchanged gunfire with the group of suspects, striking at least one of them with a single round. Law enforcement converged on the scene and attempted to render first aid to the wounded alleged thief, but he died at the site of the attempted robbery.
Police confirmed the man who defended himself and his friend was a legal gun owner in another state and had a proper license to carry the firearm into Illinois.
He was questioned and released without charges.
Great advice was given by the Roth for those who engage in online trade.
“The Peoria Police Department would like to remind the public to remain vigilant during Marketplace type transactions. Use good judgment when it comes to selecting meetup locations that are highly visible and preferably under video surveillance. The parking lot and lobby of the police department are also available to conduct such transactions.”
Words that everyone involved in the growing world of online trade should adhere to.
