AI-Generated Image. Facebook Marketplace Murders by Tech Is The Culture
Facebook Marketplace Murders (When Buying A Couch Could Cost You Your Life)
Let’s face it: Facebook Marketplace is the digital equivalent of a yard sale hosted by a guy in a hockey mask. What began as a wholesome hub for selling grandma’s china has morphed into a breeding ground for scams, robberies, and—yes—murders. If Craigslist had a “hold my beer” moment, this is it. Let’s unpack why Zuck’s flea market is less “great deals” and more “true crime podcast material.”
Facebook Marketplace Where The Deals Are Killer (Literally)
The Carlos Carrazana Ricardo Case (A High Schooler’s Tragic Mistake)
In November 2023, 18-year-old Carlos Carrazana Ricardo drove 80 miles to Baltimore to check out a car listed on Marketplace. Spoiler: He never made it home. After deciding not to buy the vehicle, Carlos was shot in the head as he drove away. The seller, Marques Harris, was later arrested with a handgun he legally couldn’t possess.
Zuck’s Sales Pitch: “See their public profile and mutual friends for peace of mind!”
Reality: Harris’ profile didn’t come with a “likely to murder you” badge.
Denise Williams And The Deadly Fridge
Denise Williams, 54, just wanted a cheap refrigerator for her boyfriend. Instead, she met Joshua Gorgone, who stabbed her to death in his apartment. Her killer’s Marketplace profile stayed active until reporters flagged it.
Takeaway: On Facebook, even appliances come with a side of danger.
The KC Teen Crime Spree
Mar’Shawn Gardner, 18, wasn’t satisfied with just one crime. He’s linked to five robberies and a murder—all tied to Marketplace listings. His MO? Show up for a car deal, steal the vehicle, and shoot anyone who chases him.
Pro Tip: If your seller’s bio reads “armed criminal action,” maybe skip the meetup.
The Scale Of The Facebook Marketplace Murders Is A Problem (It’s Not Just Bad Luck)
Since the pandemic began, ProPublica reports at least 13 murders tied to Marketplace transactions—and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. For comparison, Craigslist’s infamous “Craigslist Killer” era feels almost quaint now. Why?
– 1 Billion Users, Zero Accountability: Marketplace hit 1 billion monthly users by 2023, dwarfing Craigslist. More users = more chaos.
– Safety Theater: Facebook’s “automated systems” to flag scams are about as effective as a screen door on a submarine. ProPublica found fake accounts and violent listings slip through constantly.
– Growth Over Safety: Meta’s mantra? “Move fast and break things”—like trust, laws, and basic human decency.
Facebook’s Response To The Facebook Marketplace Murders: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
When pressed, Meta insists it’s “always working to prevent scams.” Let’s translate that corporate-speak:
– Automated Systems: Relies on AI that can’t tell a PS5 scam from a legit listing. Case in point: Willie Cousin lured victims with fake PlayStation ads, then robbed them at gunpoint. His profile? Still active until cops intervened.
– Human Moderators: Outsourced, underpaid, and overwhelmed. One moderator told ProPublica they’re “just clicking buttons as fast as possible.”
– Boosted Listings: For a fee, scammers can promote their “haunted oil paintings” or “lightly used AR-15s” (kidding… maybe).
Zuck’s Logic: “All online marketplaces have issues!” Sure, but most don’t have body counts.
4 Tips For How Not To Die On Facebook Marketplace (A Survival Guide)
1. Meet at a Police Station (Yes, Really)
Many departments offer “safe exchange zones” in their parking lots. If your seller insists on a dark alley, they’re either a vampire or a murderer—either way, hard pass.
2. Reverse Image Search Their Cat Pics
New profiles with stock photos? Red flag. Denise Williams’ killer used his real account, but at least you’ll avoid the “I’m a Nigerian prince selling a couch” types.
3. Bring a Friend (Or a Bodyguard)
As Angie Barnett of the Better Business Bureau advises: “Take somebody with you. And maybe a taser.”
4. Avoid Cash (And Your Life Savings)
Carrying $10k for a “rare collectible”? Prepare to get robbed. Use PayPal or Venmo—and maybe don’t buy that “authentic” Mona Lisa listed in Topeka.
The Bigger Picture (A Digital Wild West)
Facebook Marketplace isn’t just a tech fail—it’s a microcosm of Silicon Valley’s “ask forgiveness, not permission” ethos. While Meta rakes in ad dollars, users are left to navigate a platform where:
– Scams outnumber legitimate listings (looking at you, “male enhancement” ads).
– Violent crimes are treated as PR hiccups.
– Growth metrics matter more than graves dug.
As one investigator said, “Marketplace is where good intentions go to die.”
Buyers Beware Of The Facebook Marketplace Murders
Facebook Marketplace isn’t going anywhere—it’s too profitable. But until Meta stops treating safety like an afterthought, users should approach every listing like it’s a horror movie audition. Remember: That “vintage lamp” might come with a side of stab wounds.
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Disclaimer: This article contains AI-generated content that may include inaccuracies. Learn more [here].
