Officers say local attempted ATM heist may be linked to Texas gang
Local law enforcement officials say they are making progress in the investigation into the attempted ATM burglary at Stockmens Bank in Gainesville, and new information suggests the suspects may be tied to a larger criminal network operating across the region.
The Ozark County Sheriff’s Office, working in coordination with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, continues to investigate the March 26 incident and identify those responsible. Preliminary findings indicate the individuals involved may be connected to a string of similar ATM burglaries reported across southern Missouri and surrounding areas. Investigators believe the suspects could be affiliated with a group commonly referred to as the “Felony Lane Gang,” a Dallas, Texas-based criminal organization known for traveling to targeted communities, surveilling financial institutions and carrying out coordinated thefts.
Authorities are currently seeking information on two African American male suspects believed to be involved. While law enforcement believes the suspects have left the immediate area, efforts to positively identify and locate them are ongoing. The case remains active, and additional details will be released as they become available.
According to Ozark County Sheriff Cass Martin, the incident occurred at 4:11 a.m. March 26, when a dispatcher received a commercial motion alarm from the outdoor ATM at Stockmens Bank on Elm Street in Gainesville. After notifying responding officers and attempting to contact a keyholder, deputies arrived to find that a white Ford Power Stroke diesel truck had been used to pull the ATM from its base using a chain.
The suspects dragged the machine from the bank’s drive-thru area onto Baker Street and attempted to drive up the hill toward Highway 5. At some point, however, they abandoned the effort, leaving both the truck and ATM behind in the roadway.
A check through the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System revealed the truck belonged to a Fair Street resident, who reported it had been stolen overnight. Deputies recovered the vehicle and had it towed by Ron’s Recovery before returning it to its owner.
Sheriff Martin said public tips have already played a key role in advancing the investigation, particularly after a photo posted by the Ozark County Times on Facebook was widely shared.
“We have made progress in collecting information,” Martin said. “Since the post was made, citizens have called and reported further details that have helped our investigation.”
He emphasized the importance of community involvement. “If you see something, say something. Report all information that might be related, no matter how big or small.”
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Ozark County Sheriff’s Office at 417-679-4633.
All tips will be handled discreetly, and efforts will be made to protect the identity of those who come forward.