A 34-year-old Texas father of two was fatally shot after what was supposed to be an online marketplace transaction turned into an armed robbery and vehicle pursuit. Authorities have arrested a 17-year-old in connection with the killing.
Victor Gonzalez was meeting people on Sept. 13 as part of a property sale arranged through Facebook Marketplace when he was allegedly robbed at gunpoint, according to authorities. Gonzalez later called 911 and told dispatchers that he was following the suspects.
Gonzalez Called 911 After the Robbery
Authorities said Gonzalez reported the robbery from the 900 block of Pear Street before getting into his vehicle and pursuing the people who had allegedly robbed him.
During the emergency call, Gonzalez told the dispatcher that he had been shot. He subsequently stopped responding, according to court documents. He was later pronounced dead.
Investigators have been working to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the events that followed the online marketplace meetup.
Teen Arrested and Charged With Capital Murder
On Sept. 18, authorities arrested 17-year-old Anthony Castro in connection with Gonzalez’s death. Castro was charged with capital murder and remained in custody, according to authorities.
A witness interviewed by investigators alleged that Castro had directed him to a location and asked him to pick up other people. The witness reportedly heard a gunshot and saw Castro return to a vehicle.
According to the probable cause documents, the witness also told investigators that Castro allegedly fired toward a vehicle that was following them. The witness further alleged that Castro later described the robbery as having “hit a lick.”
Castro has not entered a plea in the case. His next court hearing is scheduled for Sept. 30.
Family Warns Others About Online Marketplace Meetings
Gonzalez’s death has left his family grieving, with his wife, Mayra Gonzalez, describing him as a devoted husband, father and friend.
She also urged people to be careful when arranging face-to-face transactions with strangers through online marketplaces.
The case has renewed concerns about the potential risks associated with meeting unknown buyers or sellers in person. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gonzalez’s death.
