Abduction and attempted robbery ends with suspect and victim in the hospital

The incident began at the BP gas station near Poe’s Pub on East Main Street.

November 17, 2015; 8:37 AM • by Richard Hayes

From RPD:

Suspect Apprehended in Abduction

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s help as they investigate an abduction and attempted robbery that occurred this afternoon.

Shortly after 12:30 p.m., two men were abducted by an armed suspect at a gas station in the 2600 block of E. Main Street. The suspect held the pair at gunpoint, demanding money, then forced them to drive to the Bank of America at 1111 E. Main Street.

One victim went into the bank to obtain money. No funds were withdrawn, and the authorities were notified of the situation. The first victim remained inside the bank.

Officers responded to the bank and found the suspect vehicle driving away with the second victim still inside. A pursuit was initiated at approximately 12:52 p.m. Police followed the SUV through multiple city neighborhoods, into Henrico County and back into the Church Hill area.

Henrico Police deployed spike strips near the intersection of Magnolia Street and Mechanicsville Turnpike in Henrico County, puncturing the SUV’s tires. The vehicle came to a stop after it failed to make a turn from 25th Street onto R Street and collided with a parked car. The pursuit lasted about 30 minutes and never exceeded a speed of 35 mph.

Gunfire was exchanged between the suspect and officers. Both the victim and suspect were taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. An RPD officer also suffered a minor injury.

Charges are expected in this case. The identity of the suspect will be released at that time. Richmond Police will not be conducting further media interviews at this time.

Anyone with information that may be helpful to the investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective William Thompson at 804-646-3925 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens may also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.