Marine Veteran Calls 911 After Fatal Shooting During Facebook Marketplace Sale

Tragic Loss of Michael Ryan Burke

• 💔 Marine veteran Michael Ryan Burke, 42, was fatally shot during a Facebook Marketplace transaction in Columbia, Missouri.
• 💡 In his final moments, Burke displayed incredible presence of mind by calling 911 and providing information about his assailants.
• 📱 He also managed to send a heartbreaking final text message to his family, stating, "I am dying and I love you."

A Life of Service and Compassion

• 🌟 Friends describe Burke as a unique individual who consistently prioritized others, often putting himself in harm's way to help.
• 🎖️ A decorated Marine, he served in special forces and undertook humanitarian and missionary trips, including to Uganda.
• 🙏 Burke was also a man of strong Christian faith, actively involved in spreading his beliefs and organizing campus events.

The Robbery and Its Aftermath

• 📱 The incident occurred during an attempt to sell an iPhone Pro 15 for $585, which escalated into a robbery.
• ⚖️ Three 18-year-olds and one juvenile have been arrested and charged in connection with the shooting.
• 💔 The friend, Jerry Reifeiss, expressed the unfathomable nature of valuing life so little for a phone, emphasizing the devastating ripple effect on multiple families.

Family and Friends Mourn

• 💬 Burke's sister, Maria, was among the first to be informed, highlighting his disciplined nature even in his final moments.
• 🗓️ Plans are underway for a visitation and funeral, with a larger celebration of life planned for April when overseas military friends can attend.
• 🕊️ The community is rallying to support Burke's family as they navigate this profound loss.