FBI seeks public’s help in finding ‘bladed bandit’ bank robber

The FBI is asking for the public’s help in identifying a man authorities nicknamed the “bladed bandit,” who is suspected of holding up four banks in Orange and Los Angeles counties this month, including one in Fountain Valley.

Investigators describe the suspect as white, 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-9 with a slender build and light-colored hair and eyes. Authorities released security camera footage from the banks Wednesday in an effort to generate tips from the public.

Authorities said the man robbed a U.S. Bank branch at 17150 Magnolia Ave. in Fountain Valley on Jan. 18.

He also is suspected of robbing a Chase Bank in Seal Beach and a Wells Fargo in Cerritos and trying to rob a Farmers & Merchants Bank in Long Beach, according to the FBI.

“During the robberies, the suspect brandishes either a gun or knife and aggressively demands cash,” the FBI wrote in a news release. “He threatens to hurt victims if they don’t comply with demands.”

Authorities said the man is believed to have an accomplice described as a man in his 20s.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the FBI at (310) 477-6565.

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