Press Release
01/26/2023
The Palmer Township Police responded to two major crimes occurring simultaneously around 3:40pm, this date as follows:
- TD Bank located at 2417 Park Avenue
Male suspect entered this facility and attempted to utilize fraudulent Identification to access bank account information.
Suspect was wearing a Covid style mask with a beanie pulled far down his face, as an attempt to disguise himself.
Bank employees have been on alert for such activities due to a high volume of attempts at this specific bank.
Bank employees notified police of this suspected fraudulent activity. The suspect became impatient, exited the bank and was confronted by the initial responding officer.
Suspect swung a walking cane several times attempting to assault the officer, and a scuffle ensued.
A “get away” vehicle described as a black colored sedan with black tinted windows pulled up to the suspect, the suspect quickly entered this New Jersey registered vehicle and fled.
A vehicle pursuit ensued north on RT 248, north onto Rt 33, exiting onto Main Street, south onto Tatamy Road and east onto Hackett Avenue.
Due to unsafe activities of the driver of this suspect’s vehicle, the pursuit was ended.
No accidents or injuries occurred.
Vehicle owner registration information was obtained and follow up investigation into this matter continues.
2. Santander Bank located at 3120 Santander Bank
A Bank Robbery occurred at this location.
A male suspect entered this facility and demanded money from the bank employee.
No weapon was displayed.
No injuries.
Male suspect obtained cash and fled this bank on foot, running to a neighboring Street where a driver and “get away” vehicle was waiting. Suspect vehicle fled the area.
Suspect vehicle was followed by a Good Samaritan providing directions to the Northampton County 911 dispatcher. Good Samaritan also observing an occupant of this vehicle jumped out of this vehicle around 25th Street, in the area of LA Fitness, running into Wilson Borough.
Suspect vehicle continued to be followed until Police Officers stopped this vehicle and detained the operator.
Vehicle and operator in custody.
This Investigation also continues.
Palmer Police were assisted in both crimes by the Bethlehem Township, Forks Township, Wilson Borough and Tatamy Borough Police Departments.
Respectfully submitted,
Wayne D. Smith
Chief
Palmer Township Police Department
