What was supposed to be a routine camera sale in northwest Atlanta turned into an armed robbery on May 27, and now police are asking for the public’s help to track down the suspect.
Investigators say the buyer pulled a gun during the meetup, hit the seller with the handgun, then fired a shot as the victim ran away. The suspect allegedly took off with the victim’s satchel, cellphone, cash and other belongings. The victim was treated for injuries that police described as not serious.
Police say the encounter turned violent
According to the Atlanta Police Department’s Robbery Unit, the deal was arranged in the 200 block of Hunnicutt Street NW. The meeting escalated when the suspect displayed a handgun, struck the seller and fired a round as the seller tried to escape. The robber then ran off with the victim’s satchel, cellphone, cash and other personal items.
Officers responded and the victim’s injuries were determined to be non life threatening. Investigators with the Robbery Unit are actively working the case, and an image of the suspect has been circulated publicly as part of the search. The department provided the case details to investigators, and the investigation remains active, the station reports FOX 5 Atlanta.
Reward offered for information
Crime Stoppers of Greater Atlanta is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest and indictment in the case, according to the program’s page. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
Information can be shared by calling 404-577-TIPS (8477), texting CSGA to 738477 or using the P3 Tips app, per the Atlanta Police Foundation. Investigators are also asking anyone who was in the 200 block of Hunnicutt Street NW on May 27 and who has video or other evidence to contact detectives.
How to stay safe when meeting buyers or sellers
The Federal Trade Commission recommends that people selling items online meet locally in a public, well lit place, use safe payment methods and inspect items carefully before handing anything over. The agency also warns against sharing unnecessary personal information when arranging a sale.
The Atlanta Police Department’s safety tips page offers local guidance on avoiding risky encounters and reporting suspicious activity. Police say taking basic precautions, such as meeting in busy areas or at police designated exchange spots, can reduce the odds that a simple marketplace meetup turns into a robbery.
How to contact investigators
Anyone with information about the May 27 robbery is asked to contact Crime Stoppers of Greater Atlanta anonymously at 404-577-8477, by texting CSGA to 738477, through the P3 Tips app or via the Crime Stoppers website.
Investigators specifically want to hear from anyone who has surveillance video or photos from the 200 block of Hunnicutt Street NW from that evening. Tips may be eligible for the reward if they lead to an arrest and indictment.
