Owner reunited with '77 Cougar

By David Olson

July 24, 2009 at 11:00 PM

Melford Jacobson has his Cougar back.

The lipstick-red 1977 Mercury Cougar was stolen from Jacobson's Fargo business, Budget Muffler at 1902 1st Ave. S., sometime Tuesday night.

Jacobson, who recently restored the car with about $5,000 worth of improvements, said Thursday that it is worth between $10,000 and $12,000.

Someone who learned of the theft through the news contacted Jacobson on Friday afternoon to say a car matching his had been parked in a north Fargo neighborhood for a couple of days.

Jacobson checked it out and, sure enough, it was his.

"I'm happier than heck," he said as he waited at his business for Fargo police to pick him up so they could look over the vehicle together.

Based on a quick once-over, the car seems none the worse for the experience, according to Jacobson.

"It's just wonderful news," he said.

Readers can reach Forum reporter Dave Olson at (701) 241-5555

By David Olson

I'm a reporter and a photographer and sometimes I create videos to go with my stories.

I graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead and in my time with The Forum I have covered a number of beats, from cops and courts to business and education.

I've also written about UFOs, ghosts, dinosaur bones and the planet Pluto.

You may reach me by phone at 701-241-5555, or by email at dolson@forumcomm.com