Masked Bandits' ATM Heist Using Backhoe Goes Bad

Three masked robbers early Tuesday attempted to use a backhoe to steal an ATM from the wall of a Bank of America in Potomac, police said. Security personnel watched the attempted caper on surveillance cameras but the suspects fled before police arrived.

At around 2 a.m., three alleged robbers—wearing gloves and masks—attempted to use construction equipment to remove the ATM from the Bank of America at 10217 Falls Rd., Potomac (at the intersection of Falls and River roads), according to a news release from the Montgomery County Police Department.

Little did the robbers know that they were being watched remotely on surveillance cameras by bank security personnel.

When police arrived at the scene, the suspects already had fled, leaving behind the ATM chained to the backhoe and suspended over the bed of a pick-up truck. Police say both the backhoe and the truck were likely stolen. 

Police are unsure of whether the suspects fled on foot or in a vehicle.

Police ask that anyone with information about the aborted ATM heist to call 301-657-0112. To leave an anonymous tip, call 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).