Cooper

Altoona police are searching for a Bellefonte man in connection to a string of robberies and vandalism at area businesses.

Zachary Corey Cooper, 37, was identified as the primary suspect after several local establishments reported the theft of money from and damage to their skill machines in recent weeks.

He is wanted on a warrant for several felony counts each of burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, theft, receiving stolen property and attempted theft.

The investigation began when Altoona police received a report of theft at the Altoona Laundromat, 507 E. 25th Ave., on March 11. Surveillance showed a white male with dark clothing and a face covering arriving in a white GMC Envoy at 11:50 p.m. March 10. The suspect then broke into the business and allegedly stole money and caused thousands of dollars of damage to their skill machines.

In the following weeks, similar incidents were reported at The Copper Coin, 611 N. Second St., Altoona; Simington Cleaners, 217 Union Ave., Altoona; Vapes and Skillz, 2875 Route 764, Duncansville; and Rutter’s, 432 Sabbath Rest Road, Altoona.

Altoona detectives identified Cooper as the suspect and noted that a white GMC is registered to his girlfriend. Altoona police found the vehicle at the couple’s Bellefonte residence, and upon receiving a search warrant, detectives found clothing and tools consistent with the reported incidents.

Police caution that Cooper is reported to be armed and dangerous. Anyone who sees him is asked to call 911 immediately.