Armed thieves hit ATM users in several suburbs

Drive-thru ATMs are fast and convenient, but recently cash machines in the west and north suburbs have become a hotbed for crime.

"I do find that surprising and it's very concerning," said ATM user Emily Lobdell.

Over the last few weeks, two armed robbers have targeted people driving up to ATMs in Parkridge, Carpentersvile and Elgin have also been hit in recent days.

Officials said the robbers open the back door and demand the cash the driver has just withdrawn.

Glen Ellyn police are trying to figure out if the suspects robbed a drive-thru customer of $500 at a local Chase bank the same men who hit a Chase drive-thru ATM customer in Northbrook a few days after.

"I think everybody needs to be cautious using ATMs, whether it's day or night," said Bill Holmer, assistant chief of the Glen Ellyn Police Department. "You have to protect your personal info, be aware of your surroundings. If you see anything suspicious, whether it's a car or people hanging around, keep going, don't stop."

In each case, the two suspects are described in their early to late 20s and dressed entirely in black.