Special to Lake Okeechobee News
CLEWISTON -- On March 29, 2022, at approximately 9:30 a.m., officers responded to First Bank, located at 300 East Sugarland Highway in reference to a report of a bank robbery. Officers learned that a Hispanic male, approximately 5-foot, 5-inches in height, wearing a camouflage patterned hat, face mask, orange vest, and blue jeans (picture included) demanded money from the bank teller. An unknown weapon was implied under the clothing during the incident. After receiving an undisclosed amount of money, the male fled on foot.
Officers, along with deputies from the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, searched the area and were not able to locate the male. Members of the Clewiston Police Department and crime scene technicians from the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office processed the scene for evidence.
Video of the incident is being obtained from the bank and will be released when available.
Schools in the area, as well as Hendry Regional Medical Center, went on a brief lockdown until cleared. The Clewiston Police Department believes that this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to public safety.
Members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation are responding to the scene to assist. The investigation is very active and more information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Williams at 863-983-1474.