Community Safety Alert: Suspect Sought After Attempted ATM Robbery in Courtenay, BC

SECTION 1: THE ALERT

The Comox Valley RCMP are asking the public for help to identify a man suspected in an attempted robbery at an ATM outside a bank in Courtenay, British Columbia. The incident occurred in the evening outside the BMO Bank of Montreal on England Avenue, when a woman using the machine was allegedly threatened with a weapon.

According to investigators, the suspect approached the woman at the ATM, displayed an edged weapon, and tried to steal her cash. The robbery attempt was unsuccessful and the man left the area before police arrived. Officers have since obtained surveillance video of the suspect and are now turning to the community for assistance in identifying him.

SECTION 2: OFFICIAL DETAILS

Police have provided the following details from file number 2026-2819 regarding the reported attempted robbery:

On February 23, 2026, at approximately 8:20 p.m., Comox Valley RCMP officers responded to a report of an attempted robbery at the Bank of Montreal located at 585 England Ave., Courtenay, BC. A female victim was using the ATM outside the branch when a man allegedly approached, produced an edged weapon, and tried to take her money. No cash was obtained, and the suspect fled the scene.

The Comox Valley RCMP are releasing surveillance imagery of the suspect and requesting the public’s assistance to help identify him. Anyone in the area at the time, or who recognizes the description below, is urged to contact police.

Suspect Description

• Gender/Race: Caucasian male
• Age: Believed to be in his mid to late 40s
• Height: Approximately 5’10"
• Clothing: Dark green rain jacket with a small yellow “Weed Man” logo

Crime Canada Community – Your Help Is Needed: If you recognize this description or have any information about this attempted robbery, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP immediately at 250-338-6781. Even small details about the suspect’s identity, movements, or vehicle could be crucial to the investigation.

Across Canada, CrimeCanada.ca tracks local crime patterns and safety data for many communities, such as Attawapiskat 91A crime and safety statistics, to help residents understand risks and support early reporting of suspicious behaviour. Information from the public is often a key factor in identifying suspects and preventing further incidents.

SECTION 3: CRIME CANADA SAFETY PERSPECTIVE

From the perspective of CrimeCanada.ca, this incident highlights the vulnerability of residents using ATMs, particularly during evening hours and in less-busy locations. While no money was taken and the suspect left the scene, the presence of an edged weapon raises serious safety concerns for the Courtenay and broader British Columbia community.

To reduce risk around bank machines, consider basic precautions: use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas; stay alert to people loitering nearby; keep your cash and cards out of sight after your transaction; and if you feel uncomfortable, cancel the transaction and leave the area. Report suspicious or aggressive behaviour near ATMs to local police as soon as it is safe to do so. Community vigilance and timely reporting help law enforcement intervene earlier and support the safety of everyone who relies on these services.

Official Source & Community Safety

This safety alert is based on an official release from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). CrimeCanada.ca aggregates and analyzes this data to keep the british-columbia community informed, aware, and safe. We are an independent safety data aggregator and not the original creators of the underlying incident report.

Read the full official release here: RCMP Official Statement.