Woman Accidentally Locked Inside PNC Bank After Early Christmas Eve Closing
Westerville Police Respond to Bank Alarm, Discover Woman Locked Inside
Police responded cautiously to a bank on Polaris Parkway on Christmas Eve after multiple alarms went off, raising concerns of a potential robbery.
PNC Bank’s alarm company alerted Westerville police after detecting repeated alarms at the branch, leaving officers uncertain whether the activation was accidental, a routine false alarm, or a sign of criminal activity.
When officers arrived, they found the building secure and quiet, with only one vehicle in the parking lot and no visible signs of forced entry or a break-in. While inspecting the exterior of the building, an officer noticed a woman inside the bank. From outside, he spoke with her and learned she had been accidentally locked inside when the bank closed early for Christmas Eve.
The woman said she had been inspecting a safe deposit box in the vault area and did not realize the bank was closing. She also mentioned that no employees noticed she was still inside before the building was secured.
The alarm company contacted the bank, which arranged for an employee to respond and unlock the doors. While waiting to be let out, the woman stayed inside the bank, sitting in a chair, using her phone.
After the building was unlocked, the woman was able to leave safely.
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