Gates Police: Armed man robbed victim at ATM

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — The Gates Police Department urges everyone to be aware of their surroundings at night after a man was robbed at gunpoint at a drive-up ATM.

Police tell News10NBC the victim did the right thing by complying with the robber and handing over the cash.

The robbery happened at a stand-alone ATM on the 1300 block of Chili Avenue. Sgt. David Kaiser says a masked, hooded male approached the victim early Friday morning and robbed him at gunpoint. Investigators say video of the incident shows the suspect had their finger on the trigger.

"He had the male empty his bank account, or at least as much money as he could get out of the bank account, and give it over to the male who’s committing the crime," Kaiser said.

He said the suspect ran away. A K-9 was called in but was unable to track the suspect’s scent. Gates Police say a robbery with similar demands and gun took place about two weeks ago at an ATM on the east side of Monroe County at around 10:30 p.m.

"It’s my understanding there was at least one other event that was very similar. It could be related," Kaiser said.

The victim was shaken up by the incident but is otherwise okay. Kaiser offers this safety tip when it comes to using an ATM.

"I would go to an ATM in a well-lit area," Kaiser said. "Perhaps a well-trafficked area. If you can, if you’re concerned going at night, maybe go get cash out during the day when there are people out and about."

Police say although this is a targeted ATM robbery, the suspect is armed and considered dangerous. Investigators are still analyzing surveillance video from the ATM.

Investigators describe the suspect as a Black man who was wearing a hoodie over his head and wearing a face mask. Police have not provided a photo of the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911.