Effects of Crime Spike in Local Market

[Kevin Phu]

So, I live in Oxnard, CA (Ventura County) and there has been a huge spike in crime this year. Since Jan 1, there have been 9 shooting homicides (pretty much all gang related), 15+ shootings (most appear to be gang related from initial investigations), and a bunch of car thefts (had a recent one month stretch that had 25 thefts).

I'm sure this will affect the local market a but as potential buyers would see this and be turned off right? Are there any VC investors that can shed some light on this from their experience. Other investors from different areas are welcomed to share their experiences too if they've had to deal with a local market like this.

Would this trend (unsure if it's short term or long term) cause lots of people to sell quickly just to get out? 

Would that open opportunities to acquire property for below retail?

Is it even worth looking for properties in this city?

Thanks!