Bloody bank robbery takes place in Alabama

At least one gunman killed two bank tellers and wounded two others during a robbery in Alabama Monday morning, while deputies wounded a suspect, walking out with a hostage.

Photo: Bloody bank robbery takes place in Alabama

FBI spokesman Paul Daymond said a second suspect was being sought.

Daymond said the four bank employees were shot around 9 a.m., when the Wachovia bank branch opens. Wachovia spokeswoman Evelyn Mitchell said eight employees were inside but she was unsure if any customers were present.

The FBI spokesman said a deputy was driving by the bank when he saw a man coming out with a hostage. Deputies said the man was holding a gun to the head of a woman when he tripped, was shot and was captured.

The suspect, whose name was not immediately released, was taken to a hospital.

There was no immediate word on the condition of the two other bank employees who were wounded, or on what transpired inside before the gunfire. There was also no word on whether any money was taken.

Bessemer is about 15 miles (24 kilometers) southwest of Birmingham.

Wachovia spokeswoman Evelyn Mitchell said bank officials were working with police and the FBI.