Man Killed in Suspected OfferUp Transaction Gone Wrong in San Antonio
SAN ANTONIO, TX — July 23, 2025 — A man is dead following a suspected online transaction that turned deadly on Wednesday afternoon in a quiet San Antonio neighborhood.
The fatal shooting occurred around 2:45 p.m. near the intersection of Mardell Street and West Avenue, an area lined with homes and businesses on the city’s northwest side. According to the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), the victim had reportedly arranged a meeting through OfferUp, a popular peer-to-peer marketplace app, when the deal took a tragic turn.
When officers arrived on scene after multiple 911 calls reported shots fired, they found the victim—an adult male—lying on the ground with at least one gunshot wound. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
SAPD investigators believe the shooting took place during an attempted sale or purchase involving an item listed through the app. At some point during the exchange, the suspect allegedly pulled a firearm, resulting in a fatal altercation.
“We’re still working to determine the exact motive and what led to the shooting,” said an SAPD spokesperson. “But at this point, it appears the victim was targeted during a meetup arranged through OfferUp.”
The shooter reportedly fled the scene immediately after the incident. Police have not released any descriptions of the suspect or vehicle and are currently canvassing the area for surveillance footage and witnesses.
As of Thursday, the victim’s identity has not been publicly released pending notification of next of kin. No arrests have been made.
The incident has sparked new conversations about safety during private-party exchanges. SAPD is once again urging residents to use safe exchange zones located at various police substations throughout the city. These areas are monitored by security cameras and are open to the public specifically for in-person exchanges arranged online.
“These senseless acts of violence are preventable,” the spokesperson added. “If you’re meeting someone to buy or sell, choose a safe, public place—or better yet, use the designated meet-up spots.”
Residents in the Mardell and West Avenue neighborhood expressed shock and concern following the incident. Many are now calling for increased police patrols and awareness around the risks of private online transactions.
The San Antonio Police Department is asking anyone with information about the shooting or the suspect involved to contact their Homicide Unit directly or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 210-224-STOP (7867).
As the investigation continues, the city mourns the loss of another life to what appears to be a senseless act of violence rooted in mistrust and deception.
This is a developing story. Updates will be shared as more details become available.