Quick-thinking security guard thwarts robbery attempt at Fargo jewelry store

FARGO — Several West Fargo schools went into lockdown Wednesday, Feb. 8, as Fargo police investigated a robbery attempt at a nearby jewelry store.

At 10:30 a.m., officers responded to a report of an attempted robbery at Gunderson’s Jewelers, 5601 28th Ave S., near Veterans Boulevard.

Police learned several would-be robbers approached the jewelry store, and one of them showed a gun in an apparent attempt to hold up the store, police said.

"As a result of the quick thinking of the on-site security guard who locked the doors, the suspects quickly returned to a vehicle and fled southbound on Veterans Boulevard in a dark colored four-door sedan," police said in a statement.

No one was injured in the robbery attempt, police said. No arrests were reported. Police continue to investigate the case.

Anyone who witnessed the robbery attempt or has information about it is asked to call the Fargo Police Department at 701-476-4098. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting keyword FARGOPD and the tip to 847411.

As a result of the robbery attempt, West Fargo Public Schools placed Sheyenne High School, Liberty Middle School, Freedom Elementary School and Independence Elementary School into an exterior lockdown, city of West Fargo spokeswoman Addie Stewart said. Trinity Elementary School also went into a lockdown "out of an abundance of caution," officials said.

On behalf of West Fargo Police Chief Denis Otterness, Stewart said around noon that "there are no active threats located within the impacted schools."

Readers can reach West Fargo editor Wendy Reuer at wreuer@forumcomm.com or 701-241-5530 . Follow her on Twitter @ForumWendy .