Safety concerns rise after man assaulted officers, but downtown business leaders say Fargo stays on top of the matter

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — The incident involving those three Fargo police officers being assaulted in downtown Fargo has raised safety concerns. KVRR’s Juliana Pelaez spoke with local business leaders to share their take.

Downtown Fargo has visitors from all across the country exploring what the city has to offer. But there have been some locals who have shared they don’t feel as safe visiting the downtown area.

“You always have to be aware of your surroundings and who’s out there, and just you know. But that’s anywhere in my estimation we’ve lived a lot of places, and that’s just how we’ve felt,” said Teddi Walvatne, Owner of Fargo Magnolia.

Walvatne has been in the Fargo area for five years, selling bath and soap products. On Saturday, she was in the store when she heard commotion outside. But she could not see what took place.

“I saw some activity with them. The little police scooter then vehicle speed by, and then a couple of the shop owners and restaurant owners nearby talking to a police officer. And I just wondered what happened. I didn’t see it. I was kind of surprised, I didn’t know what precipitated the whole incident so I don’t know what made him react that way,” said Walvatne.

Scott Seiler from Gallery Four has been told by other members of the gallery of a few instances of them having to call local authorities. But he said that Fargo does not feel unsafe.

“The safety in downtown Fargo is great. I mean there’s a lot going on that helps everybody feel more secure. Do incidents happen? Sure. I mean there’s a lot of different instances as far as different living conditions. But I think Fargo is doing its best to stay on top of the matter,” said Scott Seiler, Gallery Four Artist Member.

Downtown Fargo has seen a decrease in various crimes compared to 2024’s numbers. But local businesses have stated they don’t feel as unsafe as people make it out to be.

Local business leaders say they want people to be aware of their surroundings but also to enjoy what Fargo has to offer.