Deputies: Robbers ambushed bank employee, used him as shield

ROUND MOUNTAIN, Texas -- A manhunt was underway Friday morning in Central Texas after an attempted bank robbery in Round Mountain.

Around 11:30 a.m., Blanco County sheriff's deputies took one man into custody.  They say he is one of three men wanted in connection with a hold up at the Cattleman's National Bank.  They say the men ambushed an employee at the bank just before 7 a.m.

The employee was unlocking the back door when the robbers came up to him, held a gun to him and forced him inside.

Detectives aren’t giving details about how right now but they say the employee did manage to notify 9-1-1.

Before the armed robbers could get the money and leave, an officer and deputy were waiting outside.

The sheriff’s office tells KVUE News the robbers used the bank employee as a hostage and shield in an effort to get away. The employee suffered a minor injury, but was released.

The armed robbers ran away without any money.

Investigators were using dogs to search for the men, and sheriff’s deputies are warning anyone who lives out here to stay locked inside their homes. If you are not home, they are asking that you stay away.

“Obviously what we want the community to know is that we are searching for these individuals. They are armed. They are dangerous...Or 911 if they see anything strange or if they see any individuals on their property that don't belong there,” said Sgt. Bob Shelton, Blanco County Sheriff's Office.

There is a 5-mile parameter in all directions of this bank right now.

The robbers are described as Hispanic males. They each wore a black ski mask and gray jacket. All are armed with a handgun.

Police have their vehicle, so they believe the men are still on foot.

Round Mountain is about an hour west of Austin.