Lacey-based Venture Bank was closed Friday by state banking regulators Friday afternoon, and was purchased by First-Citizens Bank & Trust Co. of Raleigh N.C.

    The closure and subsequent purchase are not expected to impact members of the bank with 18 branches spanning four counties, including a Centralia location.

    Depositors of Venture Bank will be able to access their money by writing checks or using ATMs or debit cards, and loan customers are asked to continue to make their payments, the bank stated in a news release.

    The demise of the third FDIC insured Washington bank this year was said to be due to the bank’s real estate lending and losses on investments in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac preferred stock.

    “Venture’s capital has been depleted by large loan and investment losses,” Brad Williamson, director of the Washington State Department of Financial Institution’s division of banks, told The Seattle Times. “Like many banks across the country, Venture’s real estate construction and development portfolio has suffered as real estate values have fallen.”

    Customers who have questions about their accounts and how the recent closure will affect future transactions are asked to call the FDIC at 1-800-430-7974 or visit www.fdic.gov/bank/individual/failed/venture-wa.html.