The FBI is urging the public to come forward with any information that may lead to the capture of a serial bank robber who has targeted financial institutions across Chicago since early May. Authorities say the man, who remains unidentified, has carried out four successful robberies and attempted two others, all within a span of a few months. Investigators have labeled him armed and dangerous and are emphasizing the urgency of the search.
According to officials, the pattern of crimes began on May 9 when the sct attempted to rob a Fifth Third Bank branch on North Broadway Avenue. Surveillance showed him wearing a black knit hat with the Nike logo on the cuff, paired with a black hooded sweatshirt layered over a light shirt, light sweatpants, and dark shoes. He failed to obtain money during this attempt, but his appearance was recorded and used to track future incidents.
Just days later, on May 14, he made another attempt at a US Bank branch on North Clark Street around 9:30 a.m., dressed in nearly identical clothing. Again, the robbery attempt was unsuccessful. However, investigators noted his persistence and consistency in targeting banks during early morning hours, typically between 9 and 10 a.m.
The following day, May 15, he escalated his efforts and successfully robbed a Fifth Third Bank branch on North Milwaukee Avenue. Witnesses and cameras recorded him wearing a dark baseball cap, a black zip-up sweatshirt over a light-colored shirt, dark shorts, and dark shoes. From that point forward, his robberies became more brazen and successful.
On June 2, the suspect managed to rob two different banks within hours. Around 9:30 a.m., he targeted a Huntington Bank on West Fullerton Avenue, and later the same day at approximately 12 p.m., he returned to the Fifth Third Bank on North Broadway, which he had previously attempted to rob in May. On both occasions, he wore a black hooded sweatshirt with the hood pulled over his head, a black face covering, black pants, and black shoes with white soles. He also carried a distinct red drawstring bag, which authorities believe he may be using to transport stolen cash.
His most recent known crime took place on August 27, just after 9 a.m., again at the Huntington Bank on West Fullerton Avenue. During this robbery, he wore a black cap, a black face covering, a light hoodie, black pants, black shoes, and this time carried a white bag. Investigators believe he deliberately alters his clothing to avoid detection while still following a pattern of targeting banks during the morning hours.
So far, the FBI has linked him to six incidents, four of which resulted in stolen cash. All of the crimes have occurred within Chicago city limits, often in busy neighborhoods. The consistency in timing, his choice of disguise, and his repeated targeting of the same banks suggest a deliberate strategy. Law enforcement agencies are intensifying their search, warning the public not to approach the man if spotted, given the risk that he may be armed and dangerous.
In response to the growing threat, the FBI has announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect. Officials also noted that additional reward money may become available depending on the circumstances of his capture. The FBI’s Chicago Field Office is taking the lead in the investigation, coordinating with local law enforcement to gather tips, surveillance footage, and eyewitness accounts.
Authorities are encouraging anyone who may recognize the man or have knowledge about his movements to contact the FBI Chicago Field Office directly at (312) 421-6700. Tips can also be submitted online through the FBI’s official portal or provided anonymously to the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.
The case has heightened awareness across Chicago’s banking community, with employees and security personnel advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals matching the suspect’s description. For residents, the series of robberies serves as a reminder of the importance of cooperation with law enforcement in identifying and stopping criminals who endanger communities.
The FBI has stressed that the robberies, while serious, have so far not resulted in physical injuries, thanks to the restraint shown by bank staff and customers during the incidents. However, officials caution that the potential for violence remains high given the nature of the crimes and the likelihood that the suspect may be carrying a weapon.
As the manhunt continues, Chicago residents and financial institutions remain on alert, hoping that with public assistance, the suspect will soon be identified and apprehended. The FBI has reiterated that every piece of information, no matter how small it may seem, could be crucial in bringing this case to a close.
