Armored Car Guard Sought in Mexico

SAN DIEGO — The search for an armored truck driver missing since last week along with about $3 million in cash and checks is now focused in Mexico, but authorities still are unsure whether the man is a victim or a suspect.

Philip Salcedo Jr. disappeared last week after dropping off his partner in downtown San Diego. The partner made a cash pickup at a business and was supposed to meet Salcedo -- who said he was going to drive around the block -- in front of the building.

Salcedo, 23, and the armored truck owned by Loomis, Fargo & Co. never arrived. Company officials later found the vehicle parked a few blocks away. Salcedo and the cash and checks were missing.

FBI Special Agent Jan Caldwell said the bureau is working with San Diego police in the investigation. She said a tip led an FBI agent and Mexican authorities to Rosarito, Mexico, on Friday, where they recovered an undetermined amount of money and deposit bags.

“We’re trying to determine if Salcedo is a victim or a suspect. Our search is focused on Baja California, and we hope to shortly have fliers passed out in Mexico,” Caldwell said.

Salcedo’s family has made several appeals on local television for his safe return. Relatives described him as a devoted family man with two daughters and no criminal record. Philip Salcedo Sr. has hired a private investigator to help find his son.