By Shawn Henry 
A Facebook Marketplace transaction involving a used pickup truck ended in a deadly attack, highlighting the real-world risks that can accompany online sales arranged between strangers.
Authorities say the case began when Eliza Morales’ husband listed a 1994 Ford Ranger for sale on Facebook Marketplace. The posting quickly drew interest from 19-year-old Nedas Revuckas, who picked up the truck the same day it was listed. Because of the rushed nature of the transaction, officials said there was no bill of sale and other details of the agreement were left unresolved.
The two parties reportedly planned to address the remaining paperwork and issues after the weekend. Instead, the situation escalated when Revuckas returned the following Monday. Investigators say he arrived carrying a screwdriver and soon encountered Morales at the apartment.
Police allege Revuckas was angry about the condition of the truck. A confrontation followed, during which Morales was repeatedly stabbed. Authorities later determined she had been stabbed dozens of times. Investigators also said the suspect set the apartment on fire during or after the attack.
In addition to the fatal assault, officials reported that the family’s dog was stabbed in the face. The pitbull mix survived, escaped the burning apartment, and was later recovered.
Firefighters and police officers from Downers Grove responded to the scene and found Morales dead inside the residence. An investigation led authorities to Revuckas, who initially denied involvement. Police later said he confessed to the killing but minimized the extent of the attack.
Revuckas has been charged with multiple felony counts, including first-degree murder, intentional homicide of an unborn child, armed robbery, aggravated arson, and aggravated cruelty to animals. Illinois does not allow the death penalty, meaning a conviction could result in a sentence that keeps him incarcerated for life.
The case has renewed attention on the dangers of conducting private sales through online marketplaces. Facebook advises users to meet buyers and sellers in public, well-lit areas and avoid sharing personal addresses. Many police departments now offer designated exchange locations for online transactions, providing added security.
The killing underscores how quickly informal online deals can turn dangerous when safeguards are ignored, particularly when disputes arise after money and property change hands.
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