US Diplomat Kills 2 Gunmen in Pakistan

An American consular employee shot and killed two armed men who approached his car on a busy street in Lahore, Pakistan yesterday, police said today. The gunmen drove at him on motorbikes, brandishing guns, in what police suspect was a robbery attempt, one officer told the AP. The unidentified American shot and killed them, and called another nearby embassy car for help. That car hit and killed a pedestrian while rushing to the scene.

The American is currently being questioned, and may be charged with murder and illegally carrying a weapon. “Diplomatic staff usually enjoy a certain type of immunity,” the Lahore police chief said, “but I am not sure about murder. We will consult the Foreign Office.” Dozens of Pakistanis seemed convinced of his guilt, protesting outside of the police station where he is being held. One held a sign reading, “American dog.” (More Pakistan stories.)