Ottawa police seeking suspect in Facebook Marketplace robbery in Hunt Club area

Ottawa police are asking for the public's help identifying this man in connection with an alleged robbery following a Facebook Marketplace-related transaction on Oct. 11, 2025. (Ottawa Police Service/handout)

The Ottawa Police Service is asking for the public’s help identifying a man following a reported robbery in the Hunt Club area related to a Facebook Marketplace sale.

According to police the victim met the purported buyer in the 100 block of Twyford Street at around 10 p.m. on Oct. 11. When the suspect was handed the item, he ran off without paying. The seller tried to chase him, but was pushed, suffering minor injuries.

The suspect is described as Black, in his early twenties, with a slim build and short black hair. At the time of the incident, he wore navy pants, a white hoodie, and a black sleeveless vest.

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Anyone with information about the identity of this individual, or details related to this incident, is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Robbery Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 5116.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

Ottawa police said in a statement to CTV News Ottawa the service is aware of 33 reported thefts related to Facebook Marketplace in the east district since June 27.

Police urge caution when meeting online buyers and sellers

Ottawa police say there are several ways to ensure your safety when meeting strangers following an online transaction.

• Avoid inviting strangers to your home to complete a transaction.
• Bring a friend and choose a well-lit public place with video surveillance—preferably a “Safe Trade Zone” outside an Ottawa police station.
• Meet during daylight hours. Last-minute changes to the meeting location should be treated as a red flag.
• Walk away from the exchange if you’re asked to go to a second, unfamiliar location.
• Avoid meeting in vacant parking lots or secluded areas.

Safe Trade Zones are located at the following police stations:

• 211 Huntmar Dr. (Kanata Police Station)
• 245 Greenbank Rd. (Greenbank Police Station)
• 466 Metcalfe St. (visitors’ parking lot behind 474 Elgin Street)
• 4561 Bank St. (Leitrim Police Station)
• 3343 St-Joseph Blvd. (Orléans Police Station)