In a chilling case of robbery and murder, a decorated U.S. Marine and missionary was killed by a group of teenagers in Missouri as part of a Facebook Marketplace scam. Michael Ryan Burke, 42, a well-respected member of his community, was tragically shot and killed during a supposed meeting to sell his iPhone, which later led to the theft of his phone and its resale at a local ecoATM. The heart-wrenching story unfolds as investigators piece together the shocking details of Burke’s final moments.
A Deadly Ruse: The Facebook Marketplace Scheme
The tragic events unfolded on the evening of Sunday, January 16, 2026. Burke had agreed to meet with 18-year-olds Kobe Aust, Joseph Crane, and Alexis Baumann, along with a juvenile suspect, at his home in Columbia, Missouri.
The group had initially coordinated the meeting through Facebook Marketplace, under the pretense of wanting to buy Burke’s iPhone 15 Pro, which was valued at $585. However, what appeared to be a routine transaction quickly turned into a horrific crime.
At around 8:10 p.m., Burke received a text message from the juvenile suspect, saying, “I’m here.” The group arrived at his home on Ridgemont Court, where Baumann confessed during police interviews that she drove the group to Burke’s residence.
Crane and the juvenile suspect reportedly went inside the house to retrieve the phone, and Baumann stayed in the vehicle.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Baumann heard three gunshots from inside the house. Crane and the juvenile suspect immediately ran back to the car, and Baumann drove away from the scene.
In a chilling confession to the police, Baumann revealed that Crane and the juvenile had both been armed with pistols. They admitted to shooting Burke and stealing his iPhone, which they then sold at the ecoATM located at Walmart on Conley Road immediately after the murder.
A Final Text Message: Burke’s Last Words
After being shot, Burke managed to send a heart-wrenching message to his family. “Hey, I’m dying and I love you,” he texted to his mother and sister, according to family friend and fraternity brother Jerry Reifeiss, who shared this detail with local CBS affiliate KRCG.
Reifeiss described Burke as someone who always put others first, even in his final moments.
“This was just Ryan,” Reifeiss said. “He always put people in front of him and wanted to make sure people knew how he felt.
He 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.”
In addition to his final text, Burke also managed to call the police after being shot.
He told the dispatcher, “Someone came to buy a phone from me, and the suspect shot me.” Burke’s ability to communicate even after being shot is a testament to his strength and resolve in his final moments.
A Fleeing Crime Spree: Robbery and Further Violence
As the suspects fled the scene, Baumann reportedly told police that Crane and the juvenile suspect threw their sweatshirts out of her car window. Aust, who was also interviewed by police, corroborated this, confirming that Crane and the juvenile were armed and had gone inside Burke’s home.
The teens then went on a spree of robberies, allegedly targeting at least two other individuals before the fatal encounter with Burke.
The juvenile suspect reportedly threatened one of the victims, saying, “If you touch me I’ll shoot you,” after stealing the victim’s phone. The robberies, all connected to the same group, highlighted the dangerous and callous behavior of the suspects.
A Devastating Discovery: Selling the Stolen Phones
Surveillance footage obtained by police shows the teens selling the stolen phones at the ecoATM located at Walmart on Conley Road, just after all three robberies. Detectives were able to track down the group on Monday using Flock license plate cameras, which led to the identification of Baumann’s vehicle. She and Aust were arrested and taken into custody. Crane and the juvenile suspect were also arrested later that day.
The Arrests: Charges and Legal Consequences
All four individuals involved in the murder have been charged with second-degree murder, first-degree robbery, and armed criminal action. They are being held without bond as the legal proceedings unfold. The severity of the charges reflects the brutal nature of the crime and the lives that were destroyed in an instant.
Juan Alvarado Aguilar, 37, has been charged with similar offenses in connection with the deadly crash. While the legal proceedings take place, Saeed remains optimistic about the future, surrounded by his loved ones.
A Community in Shock: Remembering Michael Ryan Burke
Michael Ryan Burke was not only a decorated Marine but also a dedicated missionary who had worked in Uganda, making his untimely death even more tragic. Known for his kindness, commitment, and strong sense of duty, Burke was described by those who knew him as someone who always put others first.
His unexpected death has left a profound impact on the community, with tributes pouring in from friends, family, and colleagues.
Fletcher’s memory will forever be cherished by those who loved him, as well as by those who were fortunate enough to know him personally. His death serves as a painful reminder of the consequences of reckless actions and a stark warning of the lasting impact that reckless drivers can have on families and communities.
Justice and Healing: Seeking Answers for Saeed
As the legal process continues, the Abbasova family remains focused on Saeed’s healing and recovery. Saeed, who has shown incredible resilience despite the severe crash, continues to make progress with the support of his family and community. The fight for justice is far from over, and his family will continue to advocate for Saeed and seek justice for the pain they have endured.
The focus remains on ensuring that the individual responsible for this tragic incident is held accountable for their reckless actions. Saeed’s journey toward healing, both physically and emotionally, will continue as he navigates the challenges of recovery.
A Community’s Resolve: Moving Forward
In the wake of this tragedy, the Dallas community has shown unwavering support for Saeed and his family. Local residents, schools, and organizations have come together to rally around the Abbasovas, offering help and encouragement during this difficult time. Saeed’s resilience in the face of adversity has inspired those around him, and his positive attitude has provided hope and strength to his loved ones.
Saeed’s story is one of survival, strength, and the unwavering support of family. As he recovers from his injuries, the community remains united in their commitment to supporting him on his journey forward. Saeed’s courage in the face of adversity will continue to inspire those who know him.
