Following two robberies at local ATM machines, the Toms River Police Department is urging residents to pay attention to their surroundings when withdrawing money.

On December 7, 2015 at 4 pm officers responded to the Bank of America located at 1051 Route 37 West for a reported robbery. Upon arrival, Sergeant Ed Mooney and Officer Brett Hansen spoke with a 68 year old female who stated that money had just been stolen from her. The Berkeley Township resident stated that she had just entered her pin number at the ATM when a man approached her from behind. The man stated to her “This is a robbery, get out of the way.” He pushed past her and withdrew cash from her account. The man, who appeared to be in his late 20’s, fled on foot south to a wooded area. He was wearing a wool hat and brown jacket and appeared to be approximately 5’10” tall.

The woman was not injured during the incident and no weapon was shown. “She did the right thing by complying with the robbers demands, and by doing so, she may have avoided injury.” Most times, they don’t want to hurt you, they only want the money.”

As of last night some initial images were provided to the responding officers and are included in the hope that the public can assist in making an identification of the suspect. Additional images will be provided as they become available and the investigation continues.

On December 9, 2015 at 7:40 pm Officer Adam Koeppen responded to the Wells Fargo bank at 1853 Hooper Avenue for a reported robbery. Upon arrival he met with a 19 year old Toms River woman who advised him that a man had just stolen her money. The woman approached the ATM machine and was preparing to make a deposit. She was approached from behind by a man wearing a white ski mask, hooded sweatshirt, and jeans. He put his hand at his waistband and said “Drop it!” The woman immediately dropped the cash and her bank card and fled the area to safety. She adds that the man appeared to be 6 feet tall.

This is the second robbery that has occurred within the township this week at an ATM machine. On December 7, 2015 a 68 year old woman was robbed as she was making a transaction at the Bank of America on Route 37 west.

“We urge residents to be aware of their surroundings at all times and to make diligent observations as they approach ATM machines, especially after normal business hours,” TRPD said. “We suggest driving once around the building or parking lot before finally approaching the machines to complete transactions.”

Anyone with information should call Detective Lou Santora at 732-349-0150 extension 1276.

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