Motorcycle thief dies in shootout

MANILA, Philippines — A suspected motorcycle thief was killed in what police said was a shootout in Quezon City before dawn yesterday.

The incident occurred along Fairlaine street in Barangay Fairview at around 2:43 a.m., according to the Quezon City Police District.

Police said they were pursuing two unidentified armed men who allegedly stole the motorcycle of an Angkas rider at the corner of Dhalia and Walnut streets at around 1:15 a.m.

The suspects were spotted by police along Mindanao Avenue Extension in Barangay Sta. Monica, but instead of stopping, the suspects drove toward Fairview.

When cornered, police said one of the suspects pulled out a handgun and opened fire.

A policeman was hit but he wore a vest. The other lawmen engaged the suspects in a gunfight.

The gunman died at the scene while his companion fled on foot toward Mindanao Avenue Extension.

Police said they recovered a .38-caliber handgun from the slain suspect as well as the victim’s motorcycle.