UPDATE: A 32-year-old Mexican national has been charged in connection with a series of armed robberies that terrorized western Washington throughout August 2023. Edgar Oswaldo Gonzalez Barragan faces multiple charges after allegedly targeting three tribal casinos and a bank in a brazen crime spree.
Authorities report that Gonzalez Barragan was apprehended by Kent Police just hours after he allegedly robbed a U.S. Bank branch in Shoreline on August 11. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene when Gonzalez Barragan brandished a silver handgun, demanding cash from bank tellers.
The first incident occurred on August 1 at the Tulalip Quil Creek Casino, where he allegedly threatened to shoot guests if he wasn’t given money. The cashier pressed the panic button, causing him to flee empty-handed. Two days later, he struck again at the Silver Reef Casino on the Lummi Nation Indian Reservation, using the same firearm to demand cash and escaping on foot.
On August 9, Gonzalez Barragan attempted to rob the Little Creek Casino on Squaxin Island Tribal land. After pulling out a gun, he left in frustration when the teller informed him there was no cash available. Later that day, authorities reported a theft of a $12,000 “Jaws of Life” tool from a fire truck, linking this theft to Gonzalez Barragan through surveillance footage.
His criminal spree culminated on August 11 when he entered the U.S. Bank in Shoreline. The teller, fearing for her life, handed over cash after hearing a loud thud, which was later determined to be Gonzalez Barragan’s weapon. He was arrested wearing the same clothes as during the robbery.
Officials confirmed that cell phone location data placed Gonzalez Barragan at each crime scene, leading to his swift capture. The investigation is ongoing, with the FBI coordinating efforts alongside local law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Way Police Department and the Mason County Sheriff’s Office.
This series of robberies has raised significant concerns about public safety in the region, and residents are urged to remain vigilant. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working diligently to ensure that all avenues are explored to prevent future incidents.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as law enforcement continues to piece together Gonzalez Barragan’s criminal activities.
