The murder of Jerson Lopez de Leon, an 18-year-old teen from Guatemala, is the first reported death linked to the phenomenal augmented reality game Pokemon Go.
De Leon, who was playing the game with cousin Daniel Moises Picen, was ambushed and shot dead while walking on a street in Chiquimula hoping to catch one of the virtual creatures. Picen was badly wounded from the incident, while de Leon later died in the hospital.
Local police found almost 20 bullet casings at the scene of the crime. They are now looking for the driver and occupants of the van spotted driving from the scene.
Although it remains unclear, investigators have speculated that the unidentified attackers found the two teens using the app, which encourages players to go to specific areas to catch Pokemon creatures. They believe the two victims were targeted using the app and lure them into an ambush.
According to de Leon’s mother, Rosalinda, her teenage son left their house to play game.
“He was already in bed when his cousin sent him a message asking him to go out and download a game a few blocks from the house,” Rosalinda told the media.
Safety tips for Pokemon Go players
People of all ages from all walks of life have caught the Pokemon Go bug. Indeed, the game is a great way to get couch potatoes and lazy butts to head out for an adventure as they explore the real world to catch Pokemons.
But just like any adventure, there are dangers awaiting players. Here are some tips to stay safe while trying to “catch them all”.
1. Don’t play the game while driving.
2. Avoid suspicious locations or any place you wouldn’t feel safe going.
3. Never trespass.
4. Pay attention to the people around you while playing.
5. Be prepared with supplies if you’re walking for a long time.
6. Always keep an eye on your things.
7. Be observant of your surroundings.
8. For parents, always accompany your child when playing.
--Mini, The Summit Express
 |
| A teenager was shot dead while searching for Pokemon Go creatures in Guatemala. PHOTO CREDIT: Metro UK |
Local police found almost 20 bullet casings at the scene of the crime. They are now looking for the driver and occupants of the van spotted driving from the scene.
Although it remains unclear, investigators have speculated that the unidentified attackers found the two teens using the app, which encourages players to go to specific areas to catch Pokemon creatures. They believe the two victims were targeted using the app and lure them into an ambush.
According to de Leon’s mother, Rosalinda, her teenage son left their house to play game.
“He was already in bed when his cousin sent him a message asking him to go out and download a game a few blocks from the house,” Rosalinda told the media.
Safety tips for Pokemon Go players
People of all ages from all walks of life have caught the Pokemon Go bug. Indeed, the game is a great way to get couch potatoes and lazy butts to head out for an adventure as they explore the real world to catch Pokemons.
But just like any adventure, there are dangers awaiting players. Here are some tips to stay safe while trying to “catch them all”.
1. Don’t play the game while driving.
2. Avoid suspicious locations or any place you wouldn’t feel safe going.
3. Never trespass.
4. Pay attention to the people around you while playing.
5. Be prepared with supplies if you’re walking for a long time.
6. Always keep an eye on your things.
7. Be observant of your surroundings.
8. For parents, always accompany your child when playing.
--Mini, The Summit Express
