Robber strikes Grand Avenue bank

By PAUL WALSH, Star Tribune

Last update: August 27, 2008 - 1:48 PM

A masked robber approached a teller as she opened a St. Paul bank this morning, threatened the employee, took the money and ran, authorities said.

The holdup of the Bank Cherokee, 985 Grand Av., occurred about 7:15 a.m., the FBI said.

According to the FBI:

The robber approached the teller from behind while entering the bank. The suspect had his hand in his hooded sweatshirt pocket and said that he had a gun, although no weapon was displayed.

The robber demanded money, and the teller complied. The robber then fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of money.

The suspect is described as 5-foot-10 to 5-11, with a a medium build. He was wearing a black mask over his entire face, and dark hooded sweatshirt, dark pants and dark gloves.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to contact the FBI at 612-376-3200, the St. Paul Police Department or Crime Stoppers. A reward is offered for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482