UPDATE: A Mexican national has been arrested in connection with a series of armed robberies across western Washington, including three tribal casinos and a U.S. Bank branch. Edgar Oswaldo Gonzalez Barragan, aged 32, was apprehended by Kent police on August 11, 2023, just hours after he allegedly robbed a bank in Shoreline.
The pattern of crime began on August 1, when Gonzalez Barragan brandished a silver handgun at the Tulalip Quil Creek Casino, demanding cash from a cashier. The employee activated a panic button, prompting Gonzalez Barragan to flee without any money. Just two days later, he was identified as the suspect in another robbery at the Silver Reef Casino on the Lummi Nation Indian Reservation, where he again threatened staff with a firearm.
On August 9, Gonzalez Barragan attempted to rob the Little Creek Casino on Squaxin Island. He produced a gun but fled after being told there was no cash available. In a troubling twist, later that same day, the Riverside Fire Authority reported the theft of its $12,000 “Jaws of Life” tool from a fire truck. Surveillance footage connected the vehicle used in the theft to Gonzalez Barragan.
The crime spree culminated in the robbery of the U.S. Bank branch in Shoreline, where Gonzalez Barragan demanded cash, leaving the teller fearing for their safety due to the potential presence of a weapon. He was arrested later that day, still wearing the same clothing as during the bank robbery.
Authorities confirm that cell phone data places Gonzalez Barragan at the scenes of all related crimes. The FBI is actively investigating the case, with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Kent Police Department, Lummi Nation Police Department, and several others.
With Gonzalez Barragan’s arrest, law enforcement officials hope to quell fears in the community. Residents are urged to stay vigilant as the investigation continues. What happens next in this case will be closely monitored, with potential charges pending as prosecutors build their case.
As this story develops, updates will be provided. Stay tuned for further information on the implications of these robberies and the ongoing investigation.
