A tragic incident unfolded in Columbia, Missouri, when a Facebook Marketplace transaction for an iPhone turned into a fatal shooting, claiming the life of a decorated US Marine veteran.
Final Moments of a Marine Veteran
Michael Ryan Burke, a 42-year-old former Marine, was attempting to sell his iPhone 15 Pro, valued at approximately $585, when he was shot at his home on Ridgemont Court. According to the Columbia Police Department, the alleged robbery-turned-murder occurred around 8:15pm local time on Sunday, January 18.
In his final moments, Burke demonstrated remarkable courage and presence of mind. Despite suffering life-threatening gunshot wounds, he managed to call 911, providing authorities with a description of his attackers over the phone. Simultaneously, he sent heartbreaking text messages to his mother and sister, saying "I'm dying and I love you," as confirmed by his longtime friend Jerry Reifeiss to local news outlet KRCG13.
Police Response and Arrests
Upon arrival at the scene, officers found Burke inside his home with critical injuries. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to his wounds. The investigation quickly progressed, with detectives reviewing Burke's Facebook messages that revealed communications arranging the iPhone purchase.
By Tuesday, January 20, police had arrested four individuals in connection with the killing. Three 18-year-olds - Alexis Baumann of Hallsville, Kobe Aust of Columbia, and Joseph Crane of Columbia - along with one male juvenile were taken into custody. All face charges including second-degree murder, first-degree robbery, and first-degree burglary, with additional charges of armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon for some suspects.
The adult suspects are being held without bond at Boone County Jail, while the juvenile remains in custody at the Boone County Juvenile Office. It remains unclear whether any of the accused have retained legal representation who could comment on their behalf.
A Decorated Marine's Legacy
Jerry Reifeiss, Burke's friend, described the victim as a military hero who participated in dangerous missions during his Marine service. He expressed little surprise at Burke's final actions, noting "That was just Ryan. He always put people in front of him and wanted to make sure people knew how he felt."
Reifeiss added that Burke "didn't want to go on to the next life and pass away without providing some information to us here that would bring justice to these people and let people know he always loves them." This sentiment reflects the character of a man who, even in his dying moments, thought of others and sought to aid the investigation.
Online Marketplace Safety Concerns
The case highlights significant safety concerns surrounding online marketplace transactions. According to police documents, Burke had provided his home address to one of the suspects through Facebook Messenger, with the suspect responding "I'm here" at approximately 8:10pm, just minutes before the shooting occurred.
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers associated with arranging private sales through social media platforms, particularly when meetings occur at residential addresses rather than in public, well-lit locations with security measures in place.
