Vic Ryckaert

vic.ryckaert@indystar.com

Investigators believe the victim of a fatal shooting on the northeast side Sunday was trying to rob the man who shot him.

A 19-year-old man died in the shooting at the Cottages of Fall Creek Apartments in the 6800 block of East 56th Street, according to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.

"Detectives believe it is a self-defense case and witnesses support that allegation," Sgt. Kendale Adams said in an email Monday.

The shooter was interviewed by police and released, Adams said.

Before the shooting, one of the men had agreed to buy a phone from the other via the OfferUp smart phone app, Adams said.

The 19 year old was with a 45-year-old man when he met a 27-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman in the parking lot, according to a police report.

Everyone involved was at the scene when police arrived.

The case remains under investigation, Adams said. Evidence will be turned over to the Marion County prosecutor's office, which will decide what charges, if any, would be filed.

Police are warning people to use caution when they try to buy or sell items through websites and apps.

"IMPD discourages sites that require in-person sales, particularly around the holiday season," Adams said.

If you chose to make an face-to-face exchange with someone you don't know, Adams offered some tips to protect yourself.

•Never agree to meet in a secluded or unfamiliar location.

•Let someone know where you are going and take someone with you.

•Activate your phone's GPS tracking app.

"Deals that sound good are often scams to entice unsuspecting victims," Adams said, "and that can be hazardous and ill-advised."

Call IndyStar reporter Vic Ryckaert at (317) 444-2701. Follow him on Twitter: @vicryc.

Person shot and killed on northeast side