Tragic Facebook Marketplace Sale Ends in Murder of 18-Year-Old Joaquin Simmons
OAKLAND, OH – What should have been a simple sneaker transaction turned into a deadly encounter on Saturday, March 29, 2025, claiming the life of 18-year-old Joaquin Simmons. A young man with a bright future ahead of him, Joaquin was gunned down in a senseless act of violence after attempting to sell a pair of sneakers through Facebook Marketplace.
A Deal Gone Wrong
According to authorities, Joaquin had arranged to meet a prospective buyer in what he believed was a routine exchange. The sale, coordinated through Facebook Marketplace, was meant to take place in a public area near a strip mall in Oakland, Ohio. However, when Joaquin arrived at the designated meeting spot, the situation took a tragic turn.
Eyewitnesses and investigators report that upon meeting the buyer, an argument broke out. Instead of a simple exchange, the buyer allegedly attempted to rob Joaquin at gunpoint. In the chaos that followed, shots were fired, and Joaquin was struck multiple times.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene within minutes, but despite efforts to save him, Joaquin succumbed to his injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Community in Shock
The murder of Joaquin Simmons has left the Oakland community stunned and heartbroken. Friends and family describe him as a kind, hardworking, and ambitious young man with a passion for sneakers and an entrepreneurial spirit.
“He was just trying to make an honest living,” said one of Joaquin’s close friends. “Joaquin loved sneakers—he collected them, cleaned them up, and resold them. It was something he enjoyed doing. He never expected something like this to happen over a pair of shoes.”
His grieving mother, Tanya Simmons, tearfully expressed her devastation. “No parent should have to bury their child over something so senseless,” she said. “Joaquin had dreams, goals. He had his whole life ahead of him.”
The Ongoing Investigation
Local police have launched an intensive investigation into Joaquin’s murder. As of now, no arrests have been made, but detectives are working to track down leads, including surveillance footage from nearby businesses and the online conversations between Joaquin and the supposed buyer.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the suspect or the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of justice for Joaquin and his grieving family. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (XXX) XXX-XXXX.
A Cautionary Tale for Online Sellers
Joaquin’s tragic death has renewed concerns over the safety of online transactions, particularly those made through social media marketplaces. Law enforcement officials are reminding the public to take extreme precautions when meeting with buyers or sellers, urging individuals to:
- Meet in public, well-lit areas, preferably near law enforcement offices.
- Never go alone—bring a friend or family member.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, cancel the deal.
- Verify the buyer/seller’s identity through social media profiles and reviews.
Many communities offer “Safe Exchange Zones” at police stations to prevent crimes like this from happening.
Remembering Joaquin Simmons
As his family prepares to lay Joaquin to rest, the community is coming together to support them in their time of need. A GoFundMe page has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and support his grieving loved ones.
A candlelight vigil is also being planned to honor Joaquin’s memory and raise awareness about the dangers of online sales. His loved ones hope that by sharing his story, others will take extra precautions and prevent future tragedies.
Joaquin Simmons’ life was stolen far too soon, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Joaquin.