Suspect Sought In String Of Knife-Point ATM Robberies
Posted June 2, 2008 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Authorities are warning you to protect more than your PIN when you’re using a bank machine after a series of robberies.
Over the past week four people have been held up at knifepoint while using ATMs in the east end of the city and in Durham Region.
Police believe the same man is responsible for all of the crimes.
The first incident happened on Monday, May 26 when a knife-wielding suspect approached a man taking money out of a bank machine at Kingston Road and Morningside.
A second and similar robbery occurred two days later in the Port Union and Lawson Road area and on Saturday a third victim was approached at a bank machine in the Kingston Road and Morningside area.
The bandit also demanded car keys in at least two cases.
Police now say a fourth ATM robbery in Durham region is being linked to the same suspect.
In each case, the banks were closed when the knife-toting robber appeared and demanded cash. He’s described as:
- Black,
- Early to late 20s,
- 5’10” to 6’2″,
- Slim to medium build
- He was wearing a dark baseball cap, a dark jacket and dark pants. The lower part of his face was covered during the robberies.
If you have any information that could help investigators call (416) 808-4300 or Crime Stoppers at (416) 222-TIPS.
Here’s what Toronto Police advise you to do if you’re being robbed:
During a Robbery
- Remain Calm
- Obey the robber’s commands
- Don’t antagonize the robber
- Consider all firearms to be loaded
- Look at the robbers – notice details to aid you in describing them and their mannerisms. Note age, weight, height, clothing, tattoos or scars
- Take note of the weapon
- Watch the direction the robbers take – if they use a vehicle, try to note the licence plate number
After a Robbery
- Call the police immediately! Dial 9-1-1
- Give your name, telephone number and the address of the hold-up
- Give a description of the suspect(s), direction of travel, and a licence number if a vehicle was used
- Advise whether or not weapons were used
- Protect the crime scene. Keep customers or other employees away from the area of the store or ATM where the robbery occurred
- Ask witnesses to wait until the police arrive
- Lock the door until the police arrive
- Don’t touch anything
- Co-operate with the police
