Witnesses said motorists stopped along the freeway and collected the cash strewn across the road.
Christmas came early for some motorists traveling on a California road behind a bank robbery suspect who allegedly ditched wads of cash while fleeing, but authorities have asked that the money be returned.
After allegedly robbing a bank, 27-year-old Thomas Burke sped off in a gold Buick sedan on Railroad Canyon Road toward the Interstate 15 freeway at about 4:15 p.m. Saturday, the Lake Elsinore Police Department said.
Officers chased after Burke, who they said allegedly threw evidence from the robbery onto the freeway.
California Highway Patrol closed Interstate 15 to recover the evidence Burke allegedly discarded, but they were apparently too late.
Witnesses said motorists stopped along the freeway and collected the cash strewn across the road. Those motorists drove away before the police arrived, according to witnesses.
“Detectives are actively seeking any witnesses who can provide information towards the recovery of the evidence,” Lake Elsinore Police said.
Anyone with additional information is asked to call Riverside County Sheriff’s dispatch at 951-776-1099 or the Lake Elsinore Police Department at 951-245-3300.
Burke was taken into custody after exiting the thoroughfare and colliding with another vehicle, cops said.
He was brought to a local hospital for injuries sustained in the crash and is expected to be charged with robbery, felony evading and parole violations, police said.
RELATED STORIES
