Tempe Police Make an Arrest in 2024 ATM Burglarydetail

Tempe, AZ - After months of investigative work, the Tempe Police Department has arrested a suspect in a bold ATM burglary that netted more than $150,000 from a Wells Fargo ATM in Tempe.

In the early morning hours of October 4, 2024, officers responded to a break-in at a nail salon in a strip mall on Baseline Road and Hardy Drive. Investigators determined that the suspect cut a large hole through the roof to get into the business. Once inside, he cut through the wall of the nail salon to access a small room used to service a Wells Fargo ATM.

The suspect used a cutting torch to get into the cash machine and stole more than $155,000 and caused $61,000 in damages before fleeing the scene.

Detectives used forensic evidence, including DNA analysis, to identify 36-year-old Diego Arriagada Cornejo of Chile as a suspect in the case. With assistance from partner agencies, authorities located and arrested Cornejo last month in Los Angeles.

Detectives are continuing to investigate and coordinate with regional and federal partners to determine the full scope of potential criminal activity.

Investigators believe Cornejo may be connected to similar burglaries throughout California and Washington, as well as a separate burglary in Paradise Valley.

Based on investigative findings, Cornejo is believed to be affiliated with a South American Theft Group (SATG), an organized criminal enterprise known for sophisticated commercial burglaries targeting financial institutions and high-value assets.

"This case shows the persistence of our detectives and the strength of our partnerships," said Tempe Police Chief Ken McCoy. "No matter where someone goes, we will keep working to hold those responsible accountable."

Cornejo is currently going through the legal process in this case. All charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.