Southfield Bank Robbery: Woman Charged After Hatchet Attack on Employee

On July 1, 2025, Blake Herring allegedly entered the PNC Bank branch on Northwestern Highway in Southfield armed with a hatchet. During the robbery, she reportedly struck a bank employee in the head, causing a fractured skull. Herring then fled with an undisclosed amount of cash. Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren noted that Herring was observed on surveillance video purchasing the hatchet at a Meijer store and practicing swinging it before the robbery. She was also seen hesitating outside the bank for about 30 minutes before entering. Police arrested Herring on July 2 and recovered some of the stolen money. She is currently held on a $2 million bond and is expected to appear in court on July 17. The victim is recovering at home after being hospitalized. It was initially believed there was a second related incident where a person threatened apartment employees with an axe, but that was determined to be a separate incident.

Blake Herring faces charges of bank robbery and assault with intent to murder.

The victim suffered a fractured skull and was hospitalized for several days before being released to recover at home.

Surveillance video showed Herring purchasing the hatchet and practicing with it, as well as hesitating before entering the bank. Police also found stolen money in her home and car.

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