Update on the First Commercial Bank Robbery

Dear Neighbor,

I am writing to update you on an attempted bank robbery that occurred in our neighborhood today. At approximately 9:45 a.m. today (Thursday), a gunman entered through the back door of First Commercial Bank, located at 6945 N. Clark (northeast corner of Clark and Morse), and announced a robbery. Bank customers and a number of bank employees fled the building. Other employees hid in different rooms in the building.

Contrary to early news media reports, the gunman did not take hostages, and it now appears he fled the building shortly after he announced the robbery. It is not yet known whether he took any money, nor is it known if he had any accomplices. Fortunately, no one was hurt.

The Chicago Police Department responded immediately to the scene. The Police Department immediately closed Clark Street and secured the building. Together with agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Police Department conducted a thorough search of the building and concluded that the assailant was no longer at the scene.

The FBI is conducting an investigation and is currently interviewing witnesses. I will share with you a physical description of the robber, and any other pertinent information, as soon as it becomes available.

First Commercial Bank has long been an important institution in our community, and has helped support many 49th Ward families, businesses and organizations. Many of its employees are neighborhood residents. I know you share my relief that no one was hurt, and wish everyone at First Commercial all the best during this very trying time.

Sincerely,

Joe Moore