Ansley and Broken Bow ATM Thefts Under Investigation; Suspect Vehicle Identified

Law enforcement agencies in Custer County, Nebraska, are conducting a joint investigation into two related ATM thefts that took place last week. Suspects managed to steal more than $24,000 in total from Flatwater Bank ATMs in the communities of Ansley and Broken Bow, prompting police to release information about a suspect vehicle.

The Thefts in Broken Bow and Ansley

According to reports from the Custer County Sheriff’s Office and the Broken Bow Police Department, the thefts occurred during the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 27, 2026. In Broken Bow, Chief of Police Chris Anderson stated that unknown suspects stole approximately $15,000 from a Flatwater Bank ATM. The perpetrators also attempted to break into a second ATM in the community but were unsuccessful.

A similar heist was carried out in Ansley. Custer County Sheriff Dan Osmond reported that approximately $9,500 was stolen from the Flatwater Bank ATM located in that community. Based on physical and digital evidence collected at both crime scenes, investigators believe the two incidents are directly connected and were likely committed by the same individuals.

Suspect Vehicle Identified

Authorities have released a description and security footage image of a suspect vehicle used during the crimes. The vehicle is described as a white Jeep Commander, estimated to be a model from 2006 to 2010. Investigators are working to track down this vehicle and are asking members of the public to report any information that might help identify the owners or occupants.

Context: ATM Security Challenges in Rural Communities

Rural bank branches and standalone ATMs face unique security challenges compared to their urban counterparts. Lower population density and reduced traffic during the early morning hours can give thieves more time to execute physical attacks on machines without detection. Automated teller machines in these regions increasingly rely on high-definition surveillance networks, GPS trackers, and vibration-sensitive alarms to prevent and solve thefts.

ATM Security and Prevention Tips for Banks and Patrons

To prevent physical cash thefts and protect users, safety experts recommend several measures:

• Physical Enclosures and Bollards: Installing heavy steel bollards around ATMs prevents criminals from using vehicles to pull or crash open the machine's casing.
• GPS and Ink Staining: Equipping cash cassettes with GPS tracking devices and ink-staining technology renders stolen money unusable and allows police to trace the physical path of the cash.
• Enhanced Surveillance: Position cameras to capture high-definition, wide-angle views of the surrounding parking lot and close-up views of the face of anyone approaching the machine.
• Vigilance Around ATM Areas: Bank customers should be wary of any vans, SUVs, or vehicles idling near an ATM with multiple occupants, especially during off-hours, and report suspicious activity to 911 immediately.

Sources

This report is based on statements from Custer County law enforcement agencies and rural news reporting:

• Rural Radio Network / KRVN - Article published on June 1, 2026.