By Taylor Fleming
WASHINGTON, Ill. (25 News) – Despite suspects from last week’s bank robbery still being at large, neighbors in Washington trust in their community.
At about 4 p.m. Thursday, officers went to Heartland Bank and Trust on South Cummings Lane to investigate a robbery. Two persons of interest were identified. No one inside the bank was injured.
Washington resident Dave Rumer said he feels safe because this is a small town where everyone recognizes each other. He did tell 25 News that the robbery has been a big topic of conversation and what people are saying.
“You know honestly, just ‘Gee this is unusual for Washington.’ I haven’t honestly heard anybody express the fact that they would fear for their safety,” Rumer said.
A Washington woman said she still feels safe because she doesn’t think the suspects would still be in the area if they’re on the run.
Another woman, Kristen Clark, hasn’t changed her routes around Washington and still shops near the bank. Washington is very similar to where she grew up, and she was surprised to hear about a robbery happening there.
“[I’m] definitely paying attention to the news more and following up on the story, but other than that, I trust the people of Washington for the most part, and I know that it’s a strong community,” Clark said.
Later that Thursday, there was a car chase with a robbery suspect. It ended when the suspect crashed at the Cruger Road train crossing near Eureka, but he then ran from the scene.
Suspect Willie B. Franklin is still wanted for questioning, according to the FBI, who is working with local law enforcement to investigate.
A second suspect remains at large.
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