Person robbed during online exchange meeting

UPDATE 3/4: The suspect is described as a black male, late teens to early twenties, six feet tall and weighing 200 to 250 pounds. The suspect was last seen wearing all dark clothing.

UPDATE: Columbia police confirm a person was robbed at the Sonic on Rangeline Street Friday night.

The victim allegedly met the suspect for a cell phone exchange initiated on Facebook.

When the two met, the suspect took the phone and ran. The victim ran after the suspect but stopped when they said the suspect flashed a gun.

Police are searching the area for the suspect. He is described as a black heavyset man.

Last month, ABC 17 News reported on a woman who was robbed after making a transaction with a person she met online. The Columbia Police Department said criminals are continuing to use online marketplaces to target victims. A majority of the transactions involve electronics.

The Police Department encourages the public to use its lobby because someone is always present and video surveillance surrounds the area making the exchange safer.

ORIGINAL: There is a large police presence at the Sonic on Rangeline Street in Columbia.

Police responded to the area around 7:30 p.m.

An ABC 17 News crew is on the scene working to get more information.

At least five police cars and the department’s K-9 unit are on scene. Officers are also on a street nearby.

As soon as we get more information, we will bring it to you right here and on ABC 17 News at 9 on FOX 22, KQFX and at 10 on KMIZ.