18-Year-Old Joaquin Simmons Tragically Killed in Oakland During Facebook Marketplace Sneaker Sale Gone Wrong; Family and Community Mourn the Loss of a Bright and Ambitious Young Life
OAKLAND, CA – A senseless act of violence has shaken the Oakland community, leaving 18-year-old Joaquin Simmons dead after a botched robbery during a Facebook Marketplace sneaker sale on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
*A Passion for Fashion and Entrepreneurship*
Simmons, a high school senior, had a passion for fashion and entrepreneurship, frequently using Facebook Marketplace to buy and sell high-end clothing and sneakers. His family described him as a responsible and cautious individual who always prioritized safety when conducting online transactions.
*A Sale Turns Deadly*
On the evening of March 29, 2025, Simmons and a family member arrived at a pre-arranged meeting location in East Oakland to complete the sale of a pair of Balenciaga sneakers. However, the transaction quickly took a devastating turn when the buyer began arguing over the price and authenticity of the shoes.
According to a relative who was with Simmons, the situation escalated when the buyer realized he had been photographed, along with his accomplice. The suspects became agitated, and the situation turned violent.
*A Desperate Struggle for Life*
As the car sped off at high speed, Simmons was dragged alongside it, desperately struggling with the thief. The suspect punched Simmons repeatedly, yanked his hair, and hit him in the head with a gun before finally shoving him out of the moving car.
Simmons’ father, who had been nearby, witnessed the entire incident and ran barefoot for two blocks, chasing after the car in a desperate attempt to reach his son. However, by the time he arrived, it was too late.
*Community Outrage and Support*
The Oakland community is reeling from the senseless loss of Joaquin Simmons, with many expressing outrage and sadness over the tragic incident. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the Simmons family during this difficult time.
As the community comes to terms with this devastating loss, there is a growing recognition of the need for greater awareness and caution when conducting online transactions. Joaquin Simmons’ tragic passing serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and being vigilant in the face of uncertainty.
*Incident Timeline*
– March 29, 2025: Joaquin Simmons meets with a buyer to sell a pair of Balenciaga sneakers in East Oakland
– March 29, 2025: The transaction turns violent, resulting in Simmons being dragged alongside the car and eventually shoved out
– March 29, 2025: Simmons succumbs to his injuries, leaving behind a devastated family and community
– April 2025: A GoFundMe campaign is established to support the Simmons family during this difficult time.
