BEREA, Kentucky — A deadly bank robbery in Kentucky has left two employees dead and sparked an intensive manhunt for the gunman, law enforcement officials announced Thursday.
The shooting occurred at a U.S. Bank location in Berea when an armed individual wearing a gray-white hoodie, mask and gloves entered the building and opened fire on a male and female worker, according to Kentucky State Police spokesperson Trooper Scottie Pennington.
“They’re our people that work in our community, and they’re no longer with us,” Pennington told reporters. “At this time we do have some leads, and we’re trying our best to bring this evil person to justice.”
Authorities have launched a comprehensive search operation involving local police, state troopers, FBI agents and additional federal agencies. The effort includes door-to-door canvassing for witness accounts and security footage, along with aerial searches using helicopters and drones, plus K-9 teams, Pennington explained.
Officials have not determined how the perpetrator escaped the scene or disclosed whether any money was stolen during the incident, the spokesperson noted.
Kentucky State Police have released a photograph of the suspect through social media channels and are asking the public for assistance in identifying the individual.
“If you see something strange and you don’t feel right about it — you know, your dogs are acting weird — call us,” Pennington said. He advised community members to stay alert, keep exterior lights illuminated and ensure their cell phones remain charged.
Several nearby schools implemented temporary security lockdowns until officials confirmed the campuses were secure. Parents were required to personally collect their children rather than allowing normal bus transportation, Pennington reported.
U.S. Bank officials stated they are cooperating fully with investigators and pledged assistance to the victims’ relatives and fellow employees.
“We’re deeply saddened by the tragic event that took the lives of two of our employees at our Berea, Kentucky branch earlier today,” the company said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, our colleagues and the entire Berea community.”
Berea is located approximately 36 miles south of Lexington.
