Thirty-nine handguns were stolen from the Wilmington Guns store at 7213 Market St. on Aug. 28. The theft took place around 4:50 a.m.

The robbers entered through the front door window, and broke into the cabinets containing the weapons. The New Hanover County Sherriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, or ATF, are still searching for the people responsible. Chris Edwards is one of the owners of the gun shop. A variety of guns brands were stolen from the shop.

“They were all handguns,” said Edwards. “It was anything from Smith and Wesson, Glocks, Rugers, Taurus, Springfields and Kimbers.

The ATF is offering a $5,000 reward and the National Shooting Sports Federation is matching that amount for a total of $10,000 in award money for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the people involved.

Wilmington Guns is a locally operated firearms dealer owned and run by an active law enforcement officer and his family. They offer a conceal-and-carry class once a month.

“We specialize in all types of firearms, including NFA weapons and suppressors, accessories, tactical gear, personal and home defense for law enforcement, military and civilian use,” according to their website.

According to Port City Daily, “This reward is part of a larger national cooperative initiative between the NSSF and ATF in which the NSSF matches ATF rewards in cases involving the theft of firearms from federally licensed firearms retailers. The ATF works closely with members of the firearms industry to curb the criminal acquisition and misuse of firearms.”

If anyone knows any information regarding this theft, contact the Wilmington Police Department, New Hanover County Sherriff’s Office or ATF at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (800-283-4867). All calls will be kept confidential.