Dramatic ATM Heist in Washington State Caught on Video
In the early hours of a Wednesday morning, a brazen ATM theft attempt unfolded at a Washington state Walgreens, captured entirely on surveillance footage recently released by the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office. The dramatic video shows a stolen truck repeatedly ramming into the storefront, demolishing the security gate before two suspects jump out to attach chains to the ATM. After multiple violent collisions with the building, the thieves managed to dislodge the machine and drag it across the parking lot as they fled the scene. The extensive damage left behind tells the story of a meticulously planned heist that ultimately failed when deputies responded to reports of the burglary in progress around 3:30 a.m.
What makes this case particularly interesting is the coordination evident in the criminals’ approach. According to witnesses and surveillance footage, at least three suspects were involved, using multiple vehicles in what appears to be a well-rehearsed operation. After the initial theft, the ATM became detached from the chain during their hasty escape. In a surprising twist, investigators spotted a second truck linked to the crime as the suspects returned to retrieve the abandoned ATM. When they noticed law enforcement in the area, they immediately abandoned their efforts, jumping back into their vehicle and speeding away – leaving behind the prize they had caused so much destruction to obtain. This second vehicle was later discovered abandoned in nearby Tacoma, but the suspects themselves managed to evade capture.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office has been actively seeking public assistance in identifying the individuals or trucks involved in this elaborate theft attempt. A spokesperson for the department revealed an interesting detail after releasing the video: several citizens reported having seen the two trucks and suspects together earlier that night, with many noting the behavior seemed suspicious at the time. However, none of these observers reported their concerns to authorities before the crime occurred. “This is a great example of why we encourage citizens to report all suspicious activity, so deputies can investigate before crimes happen,” the spokesperson emphasized. “If you see something, say something.” This case highlights how community vigilance can potentially prevent crimes before they unfold.
The financial impact of this failed heist extends far beyond the value of the ATM itself. The storefront sustained thousands of dollars in damage from the repeated vehicle impacts, shattered glass, and structural damage to the building’s entrance. For the Walgreens location, this means not just repair costs but also potential business interruption while repairs are completed. The theft of the trucks used in the crime represents another layer of victimization. The brazenness of the attack – smashing through a storefront in the early morning hours – demonstrates a level of criminal determination that concerns law enforcement officials who worry that without apprehending these suspects, similar attacks could occur elsewhere.
Law enforcement officials are particularly concerned that this incident may not be isolated. Deputies are investigating whether this same group could be connected to other recent ATM thefts in the region, suggesting the possibility of a criminal operation that specifically targets automated teller machines. The coordinated nature of the attempt – with multiple vehicles, assigned roles for different suspects, and a plan to retrieve the ATM after the initial getaway – points to experience and planning rather than an opportunistic crime. With the suspects still at large, officials have warned that similar crimes may occur in neighboring jurisdictions, prompting increased vigilance among businesses with ATMs on their premises.
This case exemplifies a growing trend of sophisticated theft operations targeting ATMs across the country. The Pierce County incident combines elements that make it particularly troubling to law enforcement: stolen vehicles, coordinated suspects, significant property damage, and the potential for an ongoing series of similar crimes. While this particular attempt ended with the suspects fleeing empty-handed and the ATM recovered, the case remains open as investigators work to identify those responsible. The sheriff’s office continues to emphasize the importance of community involvement in crime prevention, pointing out that earlier reporting of the suspicious vehicles might have prevented the extensive damage and attempted theft altogether. As the investigation continues, businesses with ATMs are being advised to review their security measures and remain alert to similar suspicious activity.
