CICERO, IL — A teenage boy was fatally shot after allegedly attempting to rob another teen during a social media-arranged sale on Wednesday afternoon, according to town officials.
The incident occurred around 3:20 p.m. in the 1300 block of South 58th Avenue during a planned transaction between two teenagers. According to a report from ABC7 Chicago, as the intended seller walked away from the failed sale, a third teen approached and tried to forcibly take the item, prompting a struggle.
A relative of the seller, who was waiting in a nearby vehicle, intervened but was shot twice by the suspected robber. That relative, who was armed, returned fire, striking the suspect once. The relative was transported to Loyola University Medical Center in stable condition.
Shortly afterward, a teen later identified as 17-year-old Angel Dominguez arrived at Rush Oak Park Hospital with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead soon after. Police believe he was the individual who attempted the robbery.
Cicero police continue to investigate the incident and noted that their police department is a designated safe zone for in-person marketplace exchanges.
This incident highlights the potential dangers of private sales arranged online. As discussed in our guide to private sales and concealed carry, meeting in a public, secure location such as a police department can significantly reduce the risk of violence. Additionally, concealed carriers involved in such sales should maintain heightened situational awareness and ensure any accompanying individuals are also prepared to respond lawfully if an imminent threat arises.
