Houston Police Seek Armed Suspect After Violent Robbery at Chase Drive-Thru ATM
HOUSTON, TX — A manhunt is underway in North Houston after a brazen and violent robbery took place at a Chase Bank drive-thru ATM. The Houston Police Department (HPD) is urging the public to help identify and locate the suspect, who fled the scene after confronting a bank customer at gunpoint.
Details of the Incident
The robbery occurred outside the Chase Bank branch located near the intersection of Airline Road and Tidwell, a typically busy area with multiple businesses and foot traffic. According to HPD, the incident took place in broad daylight, raising concerns about the suspect’s boldness and potential threat to the public.
Surveillance footage shows the suspect, bundled up in layered clothing that partially obscured his identity, approaching a vehicle at the drive-thru ATM. The victim had just withdrawn cash from the machine when the suspect quickly closed the distance, brandishing a handgun and demanding the money.
Authorities describe the encounter as swift and aggressive. The victim complied with the demands, handing over the cash in an effort to de-escalate the situation. Fortunately, no shots were fired, and the victim was not physically harmed. The suspect then fled the scene on foot, disappearing before officers arrived.
Surveillance Footage and Description
Police have released a still image from the bank’s surveillance video, urging the public to examine it carefully. The suspect appears to be wearing a dark hoodie, a thick jacket, and a face covering, likely in an attempt to avoid identification. Despite the layers, detectives are hoping that someone will recognize the suspect’s build, posture, or gait.
“We believe this individual may be familiar with the area and may have been watching the ATM for potential victims,” said HPD spokesperson Lt. Jennifer Crawford during a press briefing. “We are asking anyone who was near the bank on the day of the robbery or who might recognize the suspect to contact us immediately.”
Community Concerns and Safety Advice
The incident has sparked concern among residents and local businesses in North Houston, particularly given the audacity of the crime and its location at a high-traffic bank.
“This is very disturbing,” said Maria Santos, a nearby business owner. “That bank is always busy, and it’s scary to think something like this can happen so quickly and so close.”
In light of the robbery, HPD has issued several safety reminders for individuals using ATMs:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Always scan the area for suspicious individuals before using an ATM.
- Avoid late-night transactions: Use ATMs during daylight hours or in well-lit, high-traffic areas.
- Don’t count or display cash in public: Immediately secure your money and avoid lingering at the machine.
- Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, leave the area and notify the police.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Help
The Houston Police Department’s Robbery Division is actively investigating the case and reviewing additional surveillance footage from nearby businesses. Detectives believe that more video evidence may help trace the suspect’s movements before and after the incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Houston Police Department or Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477) or through the Crime Stoppers website. A reward may be offered for information that leads to an arrest.
Conclusion
This violent and calculated robbery has rattled the North Houston community and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, even in everyday situations like using an ATM. As the search continues, police remain hopeful that public cooperation and surveillance evidence will help bring the suspect to justice.
Authorities stress that anyone who sees a person matching the suspect’s description should not approach them and should instead immediately call 911.
