Another bank robbed
Police believe man has held up local banks before

Gallup Police arrive at Pinnacle Bank after an alleged robbery in Gallup on Tuesday. — © 2009 Gallup Independent / Adron Gardner

Copyright © 2009
Gallup Independent
By Phil Stake
Staff writer

GALLUP — Gallup recorded its third unsolved bank robbery within 60 days Tuesday.

Much like the previous two robberies — first at Bank of America Sept. 30, and again at Pinnacle Bank east Oct. 13 — Tuesday’s bandit implied to a teller that he had a weapon, and took only what was in the teller’s drawer when he robbed another Pinnacle Bank, this time downtown, about 10:45 a.m.

A witness to the robbery who declined to be identified said police showed him a six-photo line-up Tuesday afternoon, and that he identified the robber immediately. However police would not confirm any suspects Tuesday afternoon.

The robber is described as a Native American male, standing about 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing about 180 pounds. He has acne or acne scars on his face, according to Gallup Police Deputy Chief John Allen, and he wore eyeglasses. Police initially suspected the man may be the same unidentified culprit who robbed Bank of America Sept. 30, based on witness descriptions, but appeared to have ruled out that connection Tuesday afternoon.

Crimestoppers is offering up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of any of the bank robbers. Crimestoppers in Gallup can be reached at (505) 722-6161.

Reporter Phil Stake can be reached at philip.stake@gmail.com, or by calling (505) 863-6811 x223.