Big Bend briefly locked down due to nearby robbery; police seek information

GRANT COUNTY — Big Bend Community College locked down briefly Monday morning after reports of a robbery at Airport Grocery Mart on Patton Boulevard, near the campus, according to a statement made on the college’s Facebook page.

Less than an hour after the lockdown alert was announced, campus officials gave the all-clear and lifted the order to shelter inside buildings.

The suspect, a man with a slender build and average height, in a blue or black hooded sweatshirt, grey sweatpants, Seahawks hat or beanie, grey Nike tennis shoes, and blue surgical mask, was not located Monday, according to the Moses Lake Police Department’s social media page. He also may have a tattoo on the back of his left hand, near the index finger.

The man allegedly stole an undisclosed amount of money and fled on foot into a nearby neighborhood, police said.

Police are seeking help finding the suspect. However, people are advised not to approach him, as he may be armed. Those with information can call the MLPD at 509-764-3887 or dispatch at 509-762-1160, referencing case number 20ML17137. Callers can remain anonymous.