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Over the past few months, we've heard far too many stories about innocent people being killed or hurt by criminals who use Craigslist to lure them into a trap. The latest is just as heartbreaking: a 21-year-old student from Atlanta was reportedly killed after he responded to a Craigslist ad for a new iPhone 6.
James Jones, who was a junior at Clark Atlanta University, reportedly agreed to meet the iPhone seller at a set location, but when he arrived at 9:30 p.m. Monday, three young men allegedly robbed and fatally shot him.
Police have arrested Jordan Baker, 18, Jonathan Myles, 19, and Kaylnn Ruthenberg, 21, in connection with the murder.
And this is the second horrific Craigslist ad-related shooting in the Atlanta area. Just last month, a war veteran named Bud Runion and his wife, June, were reported missing after they responded to an ad for a classic car. Their SUV was found submerged in a pond and their bodies were located nearby. A 28-year-old man was arrested and charged with their murder.
More from The Stir: Craigslist Seller Charged With Murder of Couple Who Responded to Craigslist Ad
Despite these terrible stories, people are going to continue to use Craigslist because it offers a relatively inexpensive and convenient way to sell and buy items. One police department in Columbia, Missouri, has stepped up to help facilitate Craigslist transactions and keep people safe by offering up its department lobby as a place where Craigslist buyers and sellers can make their exchanges.
It's a great idea, and one other police departments are reportedly copying. Departments in Virginia, East Chicago, and Boca Raton, Florida, have also began reportedly offering safe havens for Craigslist purchases.
It's a shame we can't trust that everyone online has good intentions, but it's good to know police are helping to ensure fewer tragedies like this one occur in the future.
Do you use Craigslist to buy or sell items?
Image via Noodles and Beef/Flickr
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