Fairbanks law enforcement and emergency crews evacuated Fred Meyer West Saturday afternoon after a "suspected explosive device" was found inside the store, according to the Fairbanks Police Department.

The department posted on social media at 4:29 p.m.: "FPD Urgent Alert: A suspected explosive device has been located inside of Fred Meyer West on University Avenue. Please avoid the area and obey all emergency personnel. The building is being evacuated."

Teal Sowden, spokesperson for the police department, confirmed that the 65th Explosive Ordinance Disposal Company at Fort Wainwright has been dispatched to the retailer.

A Fred Meyer employee refused entrance to the property to a News-Miner reporter while instructing other Fred Meyer employees to not comment on the evacuation or goings-on

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