In a startling incident of crime, authorities are currently on the hunt for a masked bandit who brazenly shot at a bank teller in Lake Forest, making off with a staggering $31,000. This shocking event unfolded at a Chase Bank branch during the noon hour on a Thursday, leaving both employees and customers rattled. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department reported that the suspect entered the bank, brandishing a firearm and firing a shot in the direction of the teller's feet. Fortunately, the bullet did not hit the teller, but the traumatic experience left a lasting impact on everyone present.
The robbery took place near the intersection of Portola and Bake parkways. Witnesses described the suspect as a male with a height ranging from 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 10 inches, possessing a thin build. He was notably dressed in a camouflage bucket hat, a black mask that concealed his face, a bright yellow hooded sweatshirt, tan pants, and gloves. The suspect wielded a silver revolver, which added to the frightening nature of the incident.
Following the crime, law enforcement quickly mobilized to search the surrounding neighborhood using a helicopter and K-9 units. Despite their efforts, the suspect managed to evade capture. Authorities collected several items from a nearby trail that could potentially be linked to the robbery, although specifics about this evidence have not been disclosed. The local community, including Foothill Ranch Elementary School, was placed on temporary lockdown as a precautionary measure while deputies searched for the perpetrator.
Authorities are actively seeking any information regarding the identity of the suspect. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department encourages anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. They can be reached at (714) 647-7000, or anonymous tips can be left at (855) 847-6227. The community remains on edge as they await updates on the investigation and hope for the swift capture of the suspect.
