A 71-year-old Trinidadian grandfather was allegedly forced to drive his vehicle at gunpoint with his three-year-old grandson inside after an armed robber stole approximately TT$7,400 during an incident in Santa Cruz.
The incident occurred on Friday, September 11, 2026, in the Palm Avenue area of Paxvale, according to police.
The elderly man was reportedly driving north along Palm Avenue at approximately 2:45 p.m., with his grandson seated in the rear of the vehicle.
Police said the man had reached the gate of a construction site at The Vistas when an unidentified man emerged from a bushy area and allegedly approached the vehicle while displaying what appeared to be a firearm.
The suspect reportedly demanded money and took several envelopes containing approximately TT$7,400.
The situation then escalated.
Instead of fleeing after taking the cash, the gunman allegedly entered the vehicle and ordered the grandfather to continue driving at gunpoint. The three-year-old child remained inside the vehicle during the ordeal.
The suspect reportedly directed the elderly man toward Cantaro Village, near Nick Drew, also known as Drew Manor. He eventually exited the vehicle and escaped.
The grandfather later reported the matter at the Santa Cruz Police Station at approximately 8 p.m. on Friday. (wicnews.com)
Police have launched an investigation and are seeking information that could lead to the identification and arrest of the suspect.
The incident comes amid continuing concern over violent crime and the use of firearms in Trinidad and Tobago.
What makes the latest case particularly disturbing is that what reportedly began as an armed robbery developed into a prolonged threat against two vulnerable victims—an elderly man and a three-year-old child.
The incident also highlights the risks faced by motorists and other members of the public during armed robberies, where surrendering valuables does not necessarily end the danger.
Police are continuing their investigations.
