Marine Shot in Craigslist Robbery (VIDEO)

By Brittney R. Villalva, Christian Post Reporter Monday, January 02, 2012

A U.S. Marine veteran became the victim to a robbery on Tuesday, after attempting to sell jewelry on Craigslist.

Interview with Craig Newmark, Founder of Craigslist.org

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Karl Trenker, 48, who was attempting to sell an 18k gold necklace, was shot several times in the torso when buyers he found on Craigslist turned out to be armed robbers.

Trenker was robbed around 3:30 p.m. Thursday, in a Florida apartment complex near Deerfield Beach. He had driven to the beach with his children, who he left in the car when going to meet the buyer.

When Trenker approached, the two men robbed him at gunpoint, one yanking the gold necklace from Trenker’s hand. The Marine proceeded to run after the assailants until one turned and fired.

The Sheriff’s report stated that Trenker was hit at least twice, after which a witness approached and informed him that police were on the way.

Trenker, however, although being badly injured, continued back to the car to ensure the safety of his kids.

Jeff Steele and James Flounory were arrested Wednesday and charged with attempted murder and robbery with a firearm. The Sheriff said Flounory later told police that Steele had planned the robbery and offered him $200 to participate.

On Thursday, the Marine was pronounced in serious but stable condition.

A neighbor of Trenker’s, Gale Nelson said, “Having a situation like this, where we have a neighbor who's kept our country safe, gets shot here in South Florida over a senseless act, over a necklace, is pretty sad, especially during the holidays.”

Classified websites like Craigslist have been connected to other robberies and serious incidents. Authorities have warned to use caution when making such transactions.