Off duty policeman chases 2 bandits following robbery; one killed, one arrested

An off-duty police officer is being hailed as a hero after he responded to a radio call about a robbery and chased two bandits who had just held up the American Stores branch in Mount Hope.

According to media reports Sgt Roger Alexander, of the North Eastern Division Task Force, saw both bandits as they left the store. 

He decided to pursue them in his unmarked vehicle. Police reports say the thieves shot at Alexander's car from their escaped vehicle, shattering the windscreen.

The policeman continued the chase. He was reluctant to fire back because civilians were in the line of fire on the chase route.

Police reinforcements from the St Joseph and Tunapuna Police Stations joined the chase, which ended in about 15 minutes when the getaway car crashed. One man, identified as "Marcus" died instantly; his accomplice was shot and was taken to hospital.

Police say "Marcus" was from Eastern Quarry, Laventille.

The drama stated shortly before noon, according to media reports. The men reportedly entered the store just before closing time and stole $15,000 from the cash register.

They also robbed five employees of cash, jewelry and cellphones. They then went into the service area where a security guard challenged them. 

The armed men robbed the guard of a $2,000 gold ring, a cellphone and $70 cash. Their escape was delayed because the guard refused to help them. Alexander saw them leave and decided to chase them.