FBI suspects one man is behind four TCF Bank branch robberies

Updated: March 4, 2011 - 11:39 PM

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A masked man robbed a TCF Bank branch in Fridley on Thursday. Authorities believe the man has robbed three other banks.

Photo: Fbi, Star Tribune

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A bank robber on Thursday evening hit his fourth TCF Bank. The lone, masked gunman is believed to be responsible for three TCF Bank robberies this week alone, according to the FBI. He is suspected in a fourth case, which happened in January.

According to the FBI: About 7 p.m. Thursday, the suspect robbed the Fridley branch at 5205 Central Av. He went into the lobby and displayed a small, semi-automatic handgun. He ordered everyone to lie down and then robbed three tellers. He fled on foot, and was seen going toward an apartment building behind the bank.

As the case with the other robberies, no vehicle was seen and no one was injured.

Authorities believe he is also responsible for robbing the St. Anthony branch Tuesday, the St. Paul branch on Monday and the West St. Paul branch on Jan. 3.

"Three in a week is not common," said FBI spokesman Steve Warfield. "This guy is on a binge for sure."

The suspect is described as Asian, 5 feet 7, with a slight build. He was wearing light colored pants or jeans, a black zippered hoodie and a black shirt, mask and gloves.

Anyone with information can call the FBI at 612-376-3200, Fridley police at 763-572-3629 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

CHAO XIONG