FBI Seeks Public's Help in Search for 'Tire Iron Bandit'

The FBI is seeking the public’s help in identifying a serial bank robber who has struck twice in nearby Willow Springs.

The “Tire Iron Bandit” is wanted for two armed bank robberies of the First Merit Bank at 8480 S. Archer Avenue in Willow Springs.

The most recent theft took place one year ago on Jan. 3, 2011. The bandit is also believed to have robbed the same bank on July 16, 2010, the FBI said.

One year ago, the bandit entered the Willow Springs bank late in the afternoon as two employees prepared to close for the day. Holding a tire iron in his left hand, the robber quickly approached the teller counter and demanded money from tellers on duty.

The bandit held open a small duffel bag on the counter for employees, who stashed cash from the drawer into the bag. The robber fled the bank, but employees could not tell federal agents which route he took or his method of escape.

The July 2010 robbery is described as a “takeover robbery.” In that robbery, the bandit also held a tire iron and repeatedly threatened to harm bank employees if they did not comply with his demands. He was last seen fleeing the bank on foot through an adjacent alley after receiving an undisclosed amount of cash.

The bandit is described as a white male, between 5 feet 11 inches and 6 feet tall, and wearing a wig.

Anyone recognizing this individual or having information about either robbery is asked to call the Chicago FBI office at 312-421-6700.