San Marcos CA– San Marcos patrol deputies responded to a bank robbery, which had just occurred, at the Chase Bank in the San Marcos community of San Elijo, at 1705 San Elijo Rd.
The male suspect, wearing a tan colored mask, goggles, black leather gloves, a plaid striped hoodie, and tan pants demanded money from multiple tellers. The suspect stuffed an undisclosed amount of money into his pants pockets and fled the bank on foot in a southbound direction through the retail complex. No weapons were seen.
While deputies were en route, Sheriff’s Canine and ASTREA helicopter were requested. Upon arrival, deputies began to set up a perimeter. Deputies were familiar with the nearby rural foot trails adjoining the retail complex and began coordinating the expansion of the perimeter. Sheriff’s Canine units from San Marcos, Valley Center, Encinitas and Vista responded to assist.
A canine located a discarded item of clothing, about 150 yards away, up a nearby trail. The canine tracked into a thickly brushed location off the main trail where additional items of clothing were located. 29 year old Josiah Jeremiah Mays was located hiding beneath brush.
Mays was wearing the same clothing described by the victims and depicted in surveillance footage. Mays was taken into custody without incident. He was armed with a large K-Bar style knife. Additional physical evidence, including the mask worn, was located and collected.
The investigation is ongoing by San Marcos detectives. Agents from the FBI responded to assist with the investigation.
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