Shots Fired In Attempted Robbery At ATM: Meriden Police

MERIDEN, CT — Police are investigating an attempted armed robbery at an ATM in Meriden on Sunday night, according to officials.

A Meriden resident was using a drive-up ATM at the Ion Bank on West Main Street around 10:25 p.m., according to police.

While using the ATM, police said a vehicle pulled up in front of the victim’s vehicle and two people armed with guns tried to rob the resident.

The resident fled, but police said the suspects fired a round at the victim’s vehicle.

Police said there were no reported injuries in connection with the incident.

The incident is being investigated by the Meriden Police Department’s Major Crimes Division.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Pellegrini at 203-630-6297 or bpellegrini@meridenct.gov.

“Our organization understands the trauma that accompanies being a victim of these crimes,” police wrote in a news release. “We will work diligently to apprehend those responsible for this crime.”

Police shared the following ATM safety tips from the American Bankers Association:

Protecting Your ATM Card

• Always protect your ATM card and keep it in a safe place, just like you would cash, credit cards or checks.
• Do not leave your ATM card lying around the house or on your desk at work. No one should have access to the card but you. Immediately notify your bank if it is lost or stolen.
• Keep your Personal Identification Number (PIN) a secret. Never write it down anywhere, especially on your ATM card.
• Never give any information about your ATM card or PIN over the telephone. For example, if you receive a call, supposedly from your bank or possibly the police, wanting to verify your PIN, do not give that information. Notify the police immediately.

Using an ATM

• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. If you observe or sense suspicious persons or circumstances, do not use the machine at that time.
• Have your ATM card ready and in your hand as you approach the ATM. Don't wait to get to the ATM and then take your card out of your wallet or purse.
• Visually inspect the ATM for possible skimming devices. Potential indicators can include sticky residue or evidence of an adhesive used by criminals to affix the device, scratches, damaged or crooked pieces, loose or extra attachments on the card slot, or noticeable resistance when pressing the keypad.
• Be careful that no one can see you enter your PIN at the ATM. Use your other hand or body to shield the ATM keyboard as you enter your PIN into the ATM.
• To keep your account information confidential, always take your receipts or transaction records with you.
• Do not count or visually display any money you received from the ATM. Immediately put your money into your pocket or purse and count it later.
• If you are using a drive-up ATM, be sure passenger windows are rolled up and all doors are locked. If you leave your car and walk to the ATM, lock your car.

Special Precautions for Using an ATM at Night

• Park close to the ATM in a well-lighted area.
• Take another person with you, if at all possible.
• If the lights at the ATM are not working, don't use it.
• If shrubbery has overgrown or a tree blocks the view, select another ATM and notify your bank.