Federal agents and Chicago police descended on a Fifth Third Bank branch near LaSalle and Madison in the Loop on Monday morning after a reported robbery, with officers on scene just before 11 a.m., according to authorities.
According to ABC7 Chicago, an FBI spokesperson confirmed that agents were working the scene alongside Chicago police. Officials did not immediately release details on whether a weapon was displayed, if anyone was hurt, who was involved, or how much money, if any, was taken.
The branch’s online listing places the Fifth Third location at 2 South LaSalle Street, at a busy Loop intersection surrounded by office towers and major transit stops that typically draw dense weekday commuter and foot traffic.
Context: police say downtown robberies have been rising
Chicago police recently issued a warning after a series of armed robberies downtown and on the North Side, a pattern that has left businesses and commuters on edge, according to ABC7 Chicago. Investigators say they are canvassing the area around LaSalle and Madison and reviewing surveillance video as they follow up on leads.
Why the FBI is involved
Because banks are federally insured, bank robberies often fall under federal jurisdiction and can trigger an FBI response, as outlined by the U.S. Department of Justice. Federal guidance, citing Title 18, Section 2113, explains how the FBI typically works with local law enforcement on bank robbery cases.
How to help investigators
Authorities are asking anyone who was near LaSalle and Madison on Monday morning and has information or video to contact investigators. The FBI notes that tips can be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI. For immediate emergencies, people should call 911; otherwise, they should use the Chicago Police Department's non-emergency options for local reporting.
The investigation remains active, with authorities reviewing surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses in the Loop. Officials have not released additional details as detectives continue their work.
