Armed Mugger Caught On Camera Climbing Tree And Hiding Before Robbing Victims At ATM

An unusual robbery tactic was caught on video after a man was seen climbing a tree and keeping an eye out for unsuspecting victims at an ATM in northwest Houston, Texas. The Houston Police Department’s Robbery Division shared the footage Tuesday and is urging the public to come forward with any information they may have on the suspect.

Two victims were robbed of their money after the armed mugger approached them at the ATM in the 2200 block of Gessner on Oct. 20. The first complainant withdrew money from the ATM at around 8:25 a.m. before the suspect appeared with a gun pointed at him. The victim gave up his cash in response to the thief’s demands, according to NBC affiliate KPRC 2.

“The complainant stated that an unknown male suddenly appeared while pointing a gun at him and demanding his money,” the Houston Police Department’s Robbery Division wrote on YouTube as they shared the footage.

“The complainant complied with the suspect, gave him the money from the ATM, and then drove away from the location,” the statement added. “The complainant stated that he then circled back and called the police.”

Another driver that arrived at the ATM also fell prey to the same suspect’s ploy. After robbing the second complainant, the armed robber ran across the street and jumped into the passenger seat of a green Toyota SUV. He then escaped from the location.

The footage shared by the Houston Police Department’s Robbery Division also shows the suspect trying to rob a woman in a black minivan. But before he could hold her at gunpoint and demand cash, the woman drove off. The video also shows the mugger climbing a tree nearby and hiding as he waits for people to drive up to the ATM, according to ABC13 Eyewitness News.

Along with the video, investigators also gave a description of the robber: “Hispanic male, spoke in Spanish and English, medium complexion, black pullover and black pants. Used a small revolver.”

Anyone with details about the suspect is urged to pass on the information to investigators.

“Please contact Crime Stoppers of Houston DIRECTLY if you have any information related to this investigation. Information leading to the charging and/or arrest of any felony suspects may result in a cash payment up to $5,000,” said the department’s message on YouTube. “Tipsters MUST contact Crime Stoppers DIRECTLY to remain anonymous and to be considered for a cash payment by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitting an online tip at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app.”