Panola County law enforcement seeks public information in double murder investigation
The Panola County Sheriff’s Department Monday announced morning that they are investigating a double murder in the county, not far from Sardis Lake. The murders occured on February 28 or march 1, 2026.
On Sunday march 1, 2026, Panola County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to investigate a one vehicle crash site on River Road in Panola County.
On arrival, deputies found Victor Gonzales, 39, and his 19-year-old daughter Serenity, deceased in a vehicle. Both appeared to have died from gunshot wounds.
It has been reported that the victims are believed to have been in the county to buy a Play Station video game system off Facebook Marketplace. Both of the victims were reportedly last seen on Friday at a job site. A family member has reported that the pair were found in a white van with all their work gear. Both Victor Gonzales and his daughter were electricians.
Anyone who has information related to this crime are urged to contact Crime Stoppers of Panola County at 662-209-2011 if you have information.
A word to the wise on avoiding dangerous situations involving pickups for online purchases
While millions of transactions occur safely, reports of robberies, scams, and violence associated with platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp have increased, with some reports detailing over a dozen such incidents in specific cities over short periods of time.
Common Dangerous Scenarios
- Armed Robbery: Victims, particularly those selling high-value items like electronics or vehicles, are targeted by criminals posing as buyers.
- Staged Meetups: Criminals may lure individuals to private, secluded, or dark locations to steal cash or merchandise.
- Violent Crime: In extreme cases, these, meetups have resulted in assaults and, rarely, homicides.
- Scams: Buyers/sellers may use fake payment methods or try to steal personal information.
- Meet in Public: Choose crowded, well-lit, public areas, such as shopping centers or police precinct parking lots. Many law enforcement agencies across the U.S. now commonly establish dedicated “safe exchange zones”.
- If a person refuses to meet at a safe location, it is considered a major red flag.
- Never go to a stranger’s home to make a transaction, nor invite anyone into your home.
- Bring Someone: Always bring a friend or family member for added security.
- Timing: Schedule meetings during the day to ensure visibility.
