Armed robbers flee a Florida bank with a hostage

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
Two armed robbers fled a bank with a hostage Tuesday after sheriff's deputies tried to end an hours-long standoff by blasting through a rear door, authorities said. Deputies were negotiating with the suspects, who were trapped in a vehicle after authorities flattened its tires. Police threw an explosive device into the back of the bank as the robbers ran out the door and jumped into a bank employee's car, authorities said. The robbers then shot at deputies. No further details were available. Sheriff's spokeswoman Twis Lizasuain said the alleged robbers appeared to be a man and woman wearing disguises, heavy coats, masks and wigs. Traffic in the tourist ground to halt after deputies cordoned off the area. Lizasuain said none of the three previously released hostages were hurt, and the suspects have said they don't intend to harm anyone. She said at least one of the robbers was armed, but did not specify a weapon.