A teenage encounter meant for a simple exchange of video game systems turned into an armed robbery in the 3400 block of Belt in the Wells/Goodfellow neighborhood, police said. The incident took place yesterday afternoon, with a 16-year-old boy reporting to police that he had been robbed by three individuals he had planned to meet for a trade.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the victim was approached around 4:40 p.m. by the suspects. Upon meeting, one of the suspects produced a firearm, demanding the teenager's property. The armed suspect then took the game system the 16-year-old had brought, and subsequently, all three suspects fled on foot from the scene, the department reported.
An investigation into the matter is currently underway by District 5 officers. The victim, who met the suspects presumably to make an equal exchange, was left without his gaming console and likely with a sense of betrayal and fear from the harrowing experience. No injuries were reported in conjunction with the robbery.
Community members with information related to the incident are encouraged to reach out to CrimeStoppers with the promise of anonymity, and the potential for a cash reward if the tip leads to an arrest. Tips can be submitted through CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477) or directly to a detective at 314-444-0001.
