Bank Robber Shot By Customer In Next Line

Sergio Enrique Font tried to rob the Trade National Bank on Friday, police said, and a customer in the next line pulled out a gun and shot him in the head.

Font, 53, walked into the bank about 9:50 a.m. He carried an empty white paper bag and a black pouch.

In the pouch was a small handgun, police said. He showed it to the teller and said, “This is a holdup. Give me all your money or I’ll kill you.”

In the next line stood Jose Leon, 60. He once got robbed in California, and figured it was a good idea to pack his own gun on trips to the bank.

Font, unaware of his armed adversary, threatened him, too, police said.

“There was a moment when I thought he was going to take my life,” said Leon. “My life or his.”

Leon fired one shot. That ended the robbery.

Charges are unlikely.

“We discussed this with the state attorney’s office. They are aware of the circumstances,” said Detective Tony Mir.

“Justifiable use of force,” said Lt. Bill Schwartz, department spokesman.

Font was listed in good condition at a Miami hospital.