FAIRVIEW TWP, PA – A man was arrested after allegedly robbing a bank in Fairview Township and telling a clerk that he “just killed someone.” Christopher J. Quinlan, 40, of Arthur Circle, Fairview Township, is accused of entering the PNC Bank branch on South Mountain Boulevard through a rear door and threatening a clerk to hand over money. He then reportedly fled the scene in a white vehicle after forcibly taking cash from the clerk.
Quinlan was charged with two counts of robbery, as well as one count each of terroristic threats, simple assault, and theft. He is currently being held at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility on a $100,000 bail set by District Judge Joseph J. Carmody of West Pittston.
Police stated that they were already familiar with Quinlan from previous interactions, and surveillance pictures from the bank matched the description of Quinlan. Following the alleged robbery, police conducted a search at Quinlan’s residence with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, Troop P, Forensic Services Unit, while also receiving help from police in Rice and Wright townships.
The incident left the local community shocked, with residents expressing concern about the brazenness of the crime and emphasizing the need for increased security measures in the area. The safety of bank employees and customers is a top priority for local law enforcement, who are urging anyone with additional information about the case to come forward.
As the case moves forward, authorities are emphasizing the importance of collaboration between various law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is served and that the community can feel secure once again. The incident serves as a reminder of the dedication and hard work of law enforcement in preventing and addressing criminal activity.