IMPD investigates two ATM robberies on Independence Day

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — IMPD is investigating two ATM robberies that happened on Independence Day.

Police reports show the robberies both happened within five miles of each other on the east side of Indianapolis.

IMPD said they don’t believe the robberies are connected, but detectives are always looking for similarities.

The first robbery happened around 6:30 p.m. at an ATM at the Chase bank near 10th Street and Bosart Avenue.  An IMPD report said a man with a gun robbed a 39-year-old man, taking his cash from the machine. The victim was not psychically hurt.

Several people nearby told 24-Hour News 8 they’ve given up on outdoor bank machines.

“I don’t use the ATM in this area. I go inside the bank because I feel much safer,” said Peta Gay Wharton, a Chase Bank customer.

Around 10:30 p.m. the same night, police reports show two men attacked a 61-year-old man who told police he had just used an ATM near 46th Street and Arlington Avenue.

“I think it’s very sad and it’s very pathetic,” said Irish Carlisle, who was using an east side ATM.

According to the police report, two men in their twenties jumped the man in the parking lot. The victim told police the suspects knocked him down and demanded his cash. The victim had a bloody lip, but did not need to go to the hospital.

“I always am very aware of my surroundings. I’m always looking around and making sure there’s nobody around,” said Carlisle.

IMPD said people should avoid using ATMs at night, but if that’s not possible they should find well-lit machines with security cameras.  Police said you should also watch for people standing around, who aren’t necessarily in line to use the machine.

“Try and be safe. Think smart before you act. Especially because people always…they’re looking at you like you’re a target,” said Wharton.

If you know anything about the two robberies you can call Crime Stoppers at 262-TIPS.