Police Investigate Third Westamerica Bank Robbery

Police Friday sought a bank robber who targeted a Westamerica Bank in North San Rafael, marking the third Westamerica Bank robbery in Marin in the past month.

According to police, the suspect demanded money from a bank employee about 1:30 p.m. at the business -- 1 Mitchell Blvd. 

He ran off with an undisclosed amont of cash, according to San Rafael police Sgt. Roy Leon.

"Witnesses were unable to confirm if they observed a weapon," Leon said.

No one spotted a vehicle.

The man was described as a white male in his late 20s or early 30s, about 5 feet 8, with an average build.

He was clean shaven and wore a black or dark gray beanie, black sunglasses, a dark gray hooded sweatshirt and dark blue jeans.

The description of the suspect and the crime is similar to a Jan. 4 robbery at the Westamerica Bank at 1177 Francisco Blvd. in San Rafael.

In that incident, according to police spokeswoman Margo Rohrbacher. He ran off and there was no mention of a weapon.

Police linked that crime with another Westamerica Bank robbery in Novato Jan. 10. The branch in Ignacio was robbed of an undisclosed amount at 3:51 p.m. and the suspect ran away.

No one was hurt and no weapon was used, police said.

"Based on appearance and similar MO, they appear to be the same suspect, though we are still actively working the case," Novato police Lt. Jennifer Welch said.

Although the cases are similar, SRPD Lt. Dan Fink said police are not prepared to confirm that the same suspect robbed the banks on Jan. 4 and Jan. 10.

Anyone with information about the San Rafael crime is asked to call San Rafael Police at 415 485-3000 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. Callers can remain anonymous. Tips can be made online here.