Bank robbed in Washington, police searching for suspect

WASHINGTON, Pa. — Washington Financial Bank on East Wiley Avenue in the City of Washington was robbed in broad daylight Monday, according to police.

Investigators say the robbery happened around 9:30 a.m., which shocked customers.

“I feel very bad for the person that that happened to and the people that were in the bank. I’m sure that was very scary,” said bank customer Amber Sloan, who visited the bank later in the day to use the ATM.

Investigators say the man responsible for the theft was captured on video surveillance wearing a hood and mask.

He allegedly handed a threatening note to a teller, demanding cash.

He was not believed to be armed.

“I feel bad for anybody whose life is threatened over money,” Sloan said. “Have we really gotten to that point as a society where people go into banks and threaten other peoples’ lives over money?”

According to police, the thief got away with a small amount of cash, but no one was hurt.

The bank shut down for the rest of the day, other than its drive-through ATM.

“You hear it all the time. It’s happening everywhere, you know. Doesn’t really surprise me,” said ATM customer Scott Stevens.

Detectives say they’ve already received a number of tips from the community.

Bank customers are hopeful police are able to hold the robber accountable.

“I hope that the police are able to catch anybody that commits a crime. We have to do better as a society. We have to do better,” Sloan said.

If you have any information that could help investigators, you’re asked to contact City of Washington Police.

The bank is expected to reopen as normal on Tuesday.

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