The attempted robbery of a Colorado Springs credit union was thwarted today when a security guard opened fire on a group of armed men wearing Halloween masks.
Lt. David Whitlock, spokesman for the Colorado Springs Police Department, said the men approached the One Thirteen Credit Union, 3505 N. Chestnut St., at about 9:44 a.m. after parking their car in the lot near the front door.
The guard saw that at least two of the suspects were carrying firearms, and at least three of the suspects were wearing “Halloween” type costume masks, as well as hooded sweatshirts with the hoods up, said Whitlock.
Whitlock said the security guard opened fire as the armed men stood at the entrance of the credit union.
“While still in the business, the guard fired multiple shots from a handgun through the glass of the entrance doors and a window at the suspects,” said Whitlock.
The men fled, but it was unclear if they all fled in a vehicle described as a late 1990s tan or gold 4-door Tarus.
Investigators said it is not known if any of the suspects were hit but that the gunfire may have hit the getaway car.
The security guard is a contracted employee of the One Thirteen Credit Union.
Whitlock said he is licensed to carry a firearm and works for a local security company. He added that no charges are being considered or anticipated against the security guard.
The first suspect is described as a white male, approximately 27, 5-foot-6 inches, with brown hair wearing a burgundy hooded sweatshirt. He was not wearing a mask.
The second suspect was described as a black male, about 35, 6-foot, with long sideburns and a goatee, wearing a dark-colored hoodie and blue jeans.
Because of the masks, the two other suspects could not be identified as far as approximate race and age.
Howard Pankratz: 303-954-1939 or hpankratz@denverpost.com
