In our digital age, online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace offer incredible convenience for buying and selling. But what happens when a great deal turns into a dangerous trap? That’s exactly what Justin Perea and his 14-year-old son, Ryder, experienced in Las Vegas, and they want everyone to learn from their terrifying ordeal.
Justin and Ryder had arranged to buy an e-bike for $1,200, a seemingly routine transaction. However, the supposed seller, claiming to be too young for a public meet-up at a police station, directed them to a quiet neighborhood. Upon arrival, their anticipation quickly turned to terror.
As they approached a garage, masked teenagers suddenly emerged, guns pointed. “They had hoods and then masks, so it was so fast they had the guns out,” Justin recounted. His immediate priority was Ryder’s safety. He quickly handed over the cash, and the shaken father and son retreated to their car, unharmed but deeply traumatized.
They immediately contacted the police, who revealed a disturbing fact: similar armed robberies had occurred at that very location. Even more alarming, the same e-bike listing that lured them into danger remains active on Facebook Marketplace.
Now, Justin and Ryder are bravely sharing their story, hoping to prevent others from falling victim. “Don’t message that ad, don’t text them, just leave it be,” Ryder pleaded. The experience has left an indelible mark, with Justin admitting he didn’t sleep that night. Their harrowing tale is a stark reminder to always exercise extreme caution during online transactions. Prioritize your safety above all else, always opt for public, well-lit meeting spots, and never ignore your instincts.
