Mumbai, Oct 27 : An unidentified gunman, allegedly trying to take passengers hostage in a state transport bus in Mumbai’s suburban Kurla was killed today by police in a shoot-out.

The incident occurred around 9.30 a. m. inside a BEST bus (Bombay Electric Supply and Transport) in the suburb, according to reports.

Mumbai Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime), Rakesh Maria, said, "The man fired at the police in ''Bail'' bazar area of Kurla and was shot in retaliatory fire."

Maria further said that police suspected the gunman was trying to take the bus passengers hostage and the fact was being verified.

He was pronounced dead at the Rajawadi hospital in Ghatkopar, where he was taken after being shot. (ANI)