Through the Roof: Suspect Arrested in $155K Tempe ATM Heist

Photos provided to iSkyNews.com by the Tempe Police Department.

Through the Roof: Suspect Arrested in $155K Tempe ATM Heist

By Staff Reporter
iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published March 4, 2026

TEMPE, AZ — After months of investigative work, the Tempe Police Department has arrested a suspect accused of carrying out a sophisticated burglary that netted more than $155,000 from a Wells Fargo ATM in Tempe.

The break-in happened during the early morning hours of October 4, 2024, when officers were called to a burglary at a nail salon located in a strip mall near Baseline Road and Hardy Drive.

According to investigators, the suspect used an elaborate method to access the cash machine. Detectives say the individual cut a large hole through the roof of the building to gain entry into the business. Once inside the nail salon, the suspect then cut through an interior wall to reach a small service room used to maintain a Wells Fargo ATM.

Police say the suspect then used a cutting torch to break into the ATM, stealing more than $155,000 in cash. The burglary also caused an estimated $61,000 in damage to the business and ATM infrastructure before the suspect fled the scene.

Following months of investigative work, 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 Cornejo in Los Angeles, California, where he was arrested last month.

Investigators believe Cornejo may be connected to similar commercial burglaries in California and Washington, as well as a separate burglary in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Detectives say he is believed to be affiliated with a South American Theft Group (SATG), an organized criminal enterprise known for carrying out sophisticated 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.”

Detectives say the investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue working with regional and federal partners to determine whether additional suspects or related crimes are connected to the case.

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

Photos provided to iSkyNews.com by the Tempe Police Department.

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