Armed robber wreaking chaos in region
By Kyra Hoggan
Police are indicating there may be some connection between a series of armed robberies in the area, most recently, one this afternoon at the downtown Kootenay Savings branch.
“On March 11 at approximately 1:18 pm, the Castlegar RCMP Detachment received a complaint of a bank robbery alarm at the Kootenay Savings Credit Union located on 4th Street in the downtown area,” said Cpl. Debbie Postnikoff. “Castlegar members and Kootenay Boundary Regional GIS responded immediately, however, the suspect had fled on foot prior to police arrival and has not yet been arrested. The male entered the bank and brandished a firearm. He was able to get away with an undisclosed amount of US currency. No one was injured during the incident. RCMP Forensic Identification Services also attended the scene for the purposes of collecting evidence.
“The male suspect is described as Caucasian, approx. 5’6”, slim build, wearing black cargo pants, a dark faded black hoodie and possibly wearing a ball cap under the hoodie. His face was covered. He was wearing black shoes and dark gloves.
“Police are asking the public to be on the look out for anyone acting suspiciously or lurking around businesses and to be attentive to individuals who seem to be out of place. Do not approach this male, rather, call 9-1-1 if you see someone that you feel that the police should be checking.”
Postnikoff said there appears to be a link between this and other recent armed robberies in the region, including Johnnie’s in Robson, Paragon pharmacy, a Salmo bank, and others.
If you have any information relating to this offense, police are urging you call CRIMESTOPPERS at 1-800-222- TIPS (8477) or Castlegar Detachment at 250-365-7721.
