A 35-year-old man who thought he was wrapping up a routine online sale in Coney Island instead wound up facing a gun and losing his car on Tuesday evening, according to police.
Shortly before 6 p.m., outside 2833 West 29 Street, the seller was approached by a group that, authorities say, forced him to hand over his vehicle before taking off. Detectives later released a wanted bulletin with still images tied to the case as they chase down fresh leads.
According to NYPD Crime Stoppers, four unidentified individuals displayed a firearm, demanded the victim's keys and then fled in his 2024 black Chrysler Pacifica with New York plate LKK5565. The incident is listed as occurring within the NYPD's 60th Precinct, and the public is being urged to share any video or tips that might help investigators.
🚨WANTED FOR A ROBBERY: On Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at approximately 6:00 P.M., a 35-year-old male arranged online to meet with an unknown individual to sell merchandise in front of 2833 West 29 Street, in the confines of the 60 Precinct in Brooklyn. The victim was approached by… pic.twitter.com/oPMSqy2OKW
— NYPD Crime Stoppers (@NYPDTips) June 28, 2026
What police say
Per the NYPD's 60th Precinct, the command covers Coney Island and the surrounding blocks near West 29 Street, and detectives are classifying the case as an armed robbery. Investigators are asking anyone who was in the area and has video, photos or other evidence to contact Crime Stoppers. Crime Stoppers notes that tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for rewards of up to $3,500.
How to reduce risk when meeting buyers
Crimes tied to in-person meetups for online sales have been rising enough that law enforcement agencies across the country keep repeating the same safety playbook. The Portland Police Bureau, for one, has urged residents to meet in a well-lit public spot and, when possible, use a designated safe exchange zone such as a police station parking lot, the Portland Police Bureau wrote.
When it comes to selling a car, Kelley Blue Book recommends screening potential buyers ahead of time, choosing busy public locations for any handoff, and confirming that payment is legitimate and complete before turning over the keys.
How to help
Anyone who has photos, video or information from around 2833 West 29 Street on Tuesday evening is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS, or the Spanish-language line at 1-888-57-PISTA, or to submit an internet tip through the program's online portal, per Crime Stoppers. Detectives say even brief clips or door-cam footage could help identify the four individuals and move the investigation forward.
