Gillespie County Crime Stoppers asking for public’s help in recent Harper burglary attempt

Gillespie County Crime Stoppers is asking for the public’s help identifying a man investigators say tried twice to break into an ATM in Harper.  The Gillespie County Sheriff’s Office said the attempted burglaries happened at the Security State Bank & Trust on the morning of Sept. 20 in Harper.  According to Sheriff Chris Ayala, the first attempt happened around 4:50 a.m., followed by a second attempt around 6:15 a.m.

The sheriff’s office released surveillance video showing the suspect at the ATM.  Investigators said the man appeared dazed and confused and lethargic during the incidents.  “We heavily believe he was influenced.  I’m not going to say alcohol was one, but I’m gonna think narcotics,” Ayala said.

Investigators said the suspect was unsuccessful both times.  The sheriff’s office also collected evidence they believe was used in the attempted break-in: a fork and a piece of pipe.

Ayala said investigators are working to determine whether the suspect is from the area or traveled to Harper.  The man is facing a charge of attempted burglary of an ATM.

Anyone with information about the suspect’s identity or the attempted burglaries is asked to contact Gillespie County Crime Stoppers at 830-997-TIPS.  All tips are anonymous, and tipsters may be eligible for cash rewards if their information leads to an arrest.