Thieves Target Lake Area ATMs In Missouri Smash-And-Cash Blitz

VERSAILLES, Mo. — Police are investigating an ATM theft that happened early Wednesday morning in Versailles.

An ATM located in the West Vue Shopping Center parking lot was burglarized at 3:46 a.m., April 10, according to a press release from the Versailles Police Department.

There was also a Greenview ATM hit early Wednesday morning.

Suspects reportedly used a stolen Dodge pickup from a local business on Highway 5. They attached chains to pull the security door off the machine, and then fled with an unknown amount of money.

Authorities recovered the truck with ATM parts in it a short distance away.

The suspects were allegedly last seen on camera heading south on Hwy 5 in a black Kia with no visible license plates.

At this time, Versailles PD says there are at least three to four suspects.

"We will continue to work the investigation and collaborate with other agencies and advise on any further developments," Chief Chad Hartman said.

The Rolla Police Department says thieves have twice hit ATMs in Rolla.

According to the Rolla PD, the suspects have reportedly been linked to a crime ring from Houston, Texas.

The Camden County Sheriff's Office says they have no evidence to support the link to Texas. Sgt. Scott Hines said they are investigating the case to see if there are connections with other counties. So far, the suspects' descriptions have been vague and there are no leads.

Historically, Rolla PD says they hit ATMs between 2-4 a.m. The suspects MO are described below:

- Stealing a heavy duty vehicle to use in the crime

- Utilizing a chain to break open the ATM

- Ditching the stolen vehicle and chain, then driving away in a rental