Bank robbers accidentally burn cash

EVERETT, WASH. - Police in Everett, Washington say would-be ATM thieves thwarted their own burglary attempt by setting the cash on fire.

Police and firefighters were called about 6 a.m. Tuesday morning to Coastal Community Bank on 19th Ave SE for the report of a fire. When they arrived, crews found the drive-up ATM and the building had been set on fire.

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The Everett Police Department said the suspects used a blowtorch to try and access the ATM’s cash box. In the process of doing so, they accidentally set the money on fire.  The police say that damage for the burnt cash, broken ATM and building are estimated at over $35,000.

Detectives identified the two suspects as Eli Steen (Monster jacket) and Jason Kovar. Both are 31 years-old, from Everett, and have probable cause for arrest on arson and burglary charges. Additionally, the two are wanted for questioning on several commercial burglaries throughout Snohomish County.

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Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward & Coastal Community Bank is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the suspects.