Standoff With Suspected Bank Robbers Ends With Gunfire, 1 Dead: Groton Police

GROTON, CT — A man is dead and another injured after a standoff with two suspected bank robbers ended at a Groton motel on Thursday, according to police.

Police responded to a report that a robbery had occurred at Chelsea Groton Bank at 1319 Gold Star Highway at 10:32 a.m.

The two suspects "inferred a weapon" and passed a note to a teller demanding cash, police said. Both suspects were wearing medical masks and fled with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Police investigated and found that the suspects' vehicle was parked at the Super 8 Motel at 173 Route 12 at about 5 p.m.

Police found the room where the suspects were located. They spoke with the suspects, who refused to leave the room.

The suspects told police they were armed with both guns and explosives and refused to surrender, according to police.

Detectives continued communication with the barricaded suspects, and the state police Emergency Services Unit was called in for assistance.

The motel was evacuated along with customers and workers of nearby businesses.

At 11:05 p.m., police heard two gunshots inside the suspects' motel room. State police used a drone to discover that both suspects were incapacitated by apparent gunshot wounds.

Both suspects were taken to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital.

Zachary Fallon, 27, of Charlestown, Rhode Island, was declared dead at 3:59 a.m., Friday, according to police. Another suspect remains hospitalized and has not yet been charged.

Police said they found no explosives in the room.

“This was an extremely dangerous and volatile situation, and I want to commend the bravery and professionalism of all the law enforcement personnel involved in bringing it to a close,” Town of Groton Police Chief L.J. Fusaro said in a statement. “We are thankful to all our mutual aid partners as well as our dispatchers and Fire and EMS personnel for their assistance during this incident. I would also like to sincerely thank the patrons and staff of the motel for their patience, understanding and cooperation. Your support helped ensure the safety of everyone in the area.”

The investigation remains active.

Anyone with information regarding this incident can contact the Groton Police Department at 860-441-6712.