Memphis police are searching for a man they say held a construction worker at gunpoint in North Memphis, forced him into a car, then made him drive to an ATM before taking cash, other belongings, and even the victim’s bicycle.
The holdup happened in the Beechmont and North Watkins area, and investigators on Thursday renewed their call for tips from anyone who might recognize the suspect or have video of the incident.
Police account of the attack
According to the Memphis Police Department, officers were called to the 3200 block of Beechmont Street on March 11 at about 3:30 p.m.
Police say a lone man knocked on the door of a home, pulled out a black handgun, and ordered the construction worker into the victim’s vehicle. The suspect then directed the victim to drive to an ATM, where the worker was forced to withdraw cash.
Per the department’s release, the man told the victim to drop him off on the 1900 block of Driftwood Avenue. There, the suspect allegedly took off with the withdrawn cash, other property, and the victim’s bicycle.
What investigators are looking for
Action News 5 reports that pole-camera footage captured the suspect riding into the area on a bicycle before the robbery.
Police describe the suspect as a Black man, about 36 years old, who was last seen wearing a yellow raincoat. Investigators are asking anyone who recognizes the man or who might have dashcam, security, or doorbell video from around the time of the crime to contact them.
How this fits a wider pattern
Crimes where victims are forced to use ATMs are not unique to Memphis. Earlier this year in Nashville, police arrested a 19-year-old accused of forcing a man to withdraw money from an ATM, according to NewsChannel 5.
Investigators say that in cases like these, details that might seem minor at first glance - a bicycle, a distinctive raincoat, or the specific time of day - can be key pieces in tracking a suspect’s movements and linking incidents together.
How to help
Anyone with information on the Memphis case is urged to call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH or submit an anonymous tip online.
The Memphis Police Department lists case number 2603023573ME for reference. CrimeStoppers says tips can remain confidential and may be eligible for a reward.
