AKRON, Ohio — Akron police are investigating two armed robberies involving Facebook Marketplace, saying the incidents happened Tuesday within hours of each other.
However, Akron police noted that the incidents "appear to be unrelated, although detectives are examining them to see if any similarities exist."
INCIDENT 1: 1200 block of Wilber Avenue, 2:30 p.m.
The first incident involved a 24-year-old victim who arranged to meet and sell his ATV. The victim told police that when he met the "buyers," one of the three suspects pulled out a handgun and took his ATV. Akron police say the other suspects fled on foot.
After searching the nearby areas for about 15 minutes, officers spotted one of the suspects, a 17-year-old boy, riding the stolen ATV in the 1000 block of Ackley Street.
Akron police arrested the teen and charged him with robbery and receiving stolen property. He was taken to the Summit County Juvenile Detention Facility.
At this time, the incident remains under investigation and Akron police are working to identify the two other suspects involved.
INCIDENT 2: 800 block of Vernon Odom Boulevard, 8 p.m
The second incident happened when a 27-year-old man met a presumed seller to buy a PlayStation 5. The victim reported using Cash App and transferring an undisclosed amount to the "seller." Instead of giving the buyer the PlayStation, the suspect pulled out a handgun and ordered the victim to leave.
The victim, who was not injured during the incident, drove away and met police at another location.
At this time, officers are working to identify the suspect/suspects involved.
Anyone with information on either incident is asked to call the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2Tip.
Citizens may also provide anonymous information to any of the following:
- The Summit County Crimestoppers
- 330-434-COPS
- Text TIPSCO with your tips
- 274637
- Download the Akron PD app and submit information by texting Tips411