Burbank, California: A daring overnight burglary targeting an ATM in Burbank spiraled into a dramatic police chase early Sunday morning, rattling residents and prompting a massive law enforcement response across Los Angeles County. Authorities confirmed that suspects attempted to steal cash from a standalone ATM before fleeing in a dark-colored vehicle, triggering a multi-agency pursuit that spanned several neighborhoods.
Early Morning Heist
The incident unfolded around 2:30 a.m. when Burbank Police officers responded to an alarm at a convenience store on Magnolia Boulevard. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered visible damage to the ATM located outside the store. Surveillance footage later revealed two masked individuals using power tools in an attempt to break open the machine.
The suspects fled moments before officers arrived, leaving behind scattered debris and abandoned burglary tools. Witnesses nearby reported hearing loud mechanical noises followed by the screeching sound of tires as a vehicle sped away.
Also Read
Police in Pursuit
Responding units quickly issued a citywide alert, and patrol cars spotted the suspect vehicle driving at high speed down Victory Boulevard. Officers initiated a chase that wound through several city streets, at times reaching over 90 miles per hour.
The pursuit crossed into neighboring areas of Glendale and North Hollywood, drawing support from both the Los Angeles Police Department and California Highway Patrol. Police deployed aerial support from a helicopter equipped with infrared cameras to track the suspects’ movements through the dark cityscape.
Dramatic Ending
The chase came to a halt when the suspects’ vehicle collided with a streetlight near Lankershim Boulevard. Officers surrounded the car, detaining one suspect at the scene while another fled on foot into a nearby industrial area. Despite an extensive search involving K-9 units, the second suspect remained at large as of Sunday morning.
Authorities confirmed that the detained individual is a 32-year-old male believed to have prior burglary-related arrests. Police are now working to determine if the suspects are connected to a series of recent ATM theft attempts reported in nearby Los Angeles communities over the past month.
Local Reaction and Investigation
Residents of the usually quiet Burbank neighborhood expressed shock and concern at the early morning commotion. Many said they were awakened by the sound of police sirens and helicopters circling overhead.
Investigators spent the remainder of the morning collecting evidence from both the burglary site and the crash scene. Technicians are analyzing fingerprints and video footage from multiple sources, including nearby businesses and traffic cameras.
Authorities are also assessing the damage to the ATM and store property. Preliminary estimates suggest several thousand dollars in repair costs, though it remains unclear if any cash was successfully removed from the machine.
Police Statement
A spokesperson for the Burbank Police Department confirmed that the investigation remains active and encouraged residents to remain vigilant. “Our patrol officers responded swiftly to an ongoing crime, prevented a larger theft, and ensured that no members of the public were hurt during the pursuit,” the spokesperson said. “We are continuing to pursue leads to bring the remaining suspect into custody.”
Police urged anyone with information or private security footage from the area to contact the Burbank Police tip line.
Continuing Threat of ATM Theft
Law enforcement agencies across Southern California have reported a noticeable uptick in ATM thefts in recent months. Criminals often use stolen vehicles, power tools, or even tow trucks in late-night attempts to break into machines or remove them entirely.
Officials say such crimes pose significant risks, not only to property but to public safety, especially when suspects drive recklessly while fleeing from police. In most cases, the suspects target remote or poorly lit ATMs where they can operate quickly and escape before officers arrive.
Community Awareness
In response to the latest incident, local business owners are being advised to enhance nighttime security. Recommendations include reinforcing camera systems, installing motion-activated lighting, and ensuring that ATM structures are securely bolted and alarmed.
Burbank residents have praised the quick response of the police and are calling for increased patrols in commercial areas after dark. The city council is expected to review security measures with local law enforcement in an upcoming meeting to address the growing concern.
Ongoing Search
As of Sunday afternoon, Burbank Police confirmed that one suspect remains on the run. Officers are combing nearby industrial zones and residential areas, aided by drones and K-9 teams. Police have not yet released the names of those involved but intend to do so once formal charges are filed.
Authorities continue to investigate whether the same suspects may have ties to an organized network targeting cash machines across Southern California.
Conclusion
The Burbank ATM burglary and ensuing pursuit have left residents shaken but grateful that no injuries occurred. Police remain committed to tracking down the remaining suspect and restoring a sense of security to the community. As the investigation unfolds, officials hope this incident serves as a warning that bold overnight heists come with swift and serious consequences.
