Arthur Green, Gleaner WriterFOUR GUNMEN were shot and killed by the police in Morant Bay, St. Thomas, on Thursday, minutes after they pulled off a heist at a hardware store.
According to the police, they were able to intercept and engage the gang of robbers in a shoot-out. After the men were fatally shot, the police were able to seize three guns, recover the firearm of a security guard which was stolen during the heist, as well as recover $70,000 cash.
A 57-year-old employee of the hardware store was shot and killed during the robbery. One of the gunmen has been identified as Kirk Brown, 25, of Hayes, Clarendon.
One of the alleged robbers reportedly died on the spot while the others who tried to escape were pursued and killed by the police in a running shoot-out in the town.
Commanding officer for the parish, Superintendent Michael James, said there has been a gradual increase in gun-related crimes in St. Thomas, and that "his team and law-abiding citizens will not tolerate any of it."
Supt. James commended the quick police response and praised all those who were involved in the operation.
Up to yesterday, the name of the hardware store employee had not yet been released.
