A robbery attempt in Santa Cruz ended in tragedy on Friday morning when two suspects were killed after targeting a 66-year-old man.

Police said the incident occurred between 5:45 a.m. and 6:15 a.m. along La Pastora Road. The victim had parked his vehicle when a grey Nissan Note pulled alongside. Two armed men got out and announced a holdup.

A struggle ensued, during which the victim, fearing for his life, retrieved his licensed firearm and discharged several rounds at the suspects. The driver of the Nissan Note sped off but crashed into an embankment shortly after.