Tourist Dies From Gunshot While Trying To Defend His Girlfriend From Motorcycle Bandits

In what will come across as a really shocking development, a New Zealand tourist has died in the Philippines.

He died while trying to defend his girlfriend from robbers.

Nicholas Peter Stacey, 34, was visiting the country with his girlfriend, Pamela Villanoza, 31. The couple had visited Palawan and were staying in Makati, a district in the capital region of Manila, on February 19, when a pair of robbers on a motorcycle stopped them and held them at gunpoint.

Stacey tried to wrestle the weapon free, however, the gun went off, fatally shooting him in the chest.

The gunman stole Villanoza’s phone and wallet before escaping with his accomplice.

"We regret to report this incident and extend our sympathy to the bereaved family," police Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo said in a statement, telling reporters that he ordered officers to "leave no stones unturned until the culprits are brought to jail and are prosecuted."

Estomo described the death as an "isolated incident" and acknowledged that it would likely scare tourists.

"We know that this incident could spark fear among tourists who plan to visit our country, so we will make sure the slain victim will get justice and demonstrate that the police are always ready to provide service," he said.

Police will look to match a slug found in the area with those found in other recent crime scenes to try and find the suspects. The robbers reportedly rode a gray and black Yamaha motorcycle, and the gunman was wearing a black shirt and red athletic shorts, according to 1 News in New Zealand.

Stacey’s family have started a crowdfunding effort to raise enough money to bring Stacey’s body back home to New Zealand. The page has raised more than $19,800 in the two days it has been active.

"The loss of such a young, kindhearted, selfless and loving man, is absolutely devastating," the Givealittle page says. "We are currently working on bringing Nick home, so details of his funeral arrangements will follow in the coming days."

"Nick was a selfless man, who worked hard within the community and his Northcross Church group, always putting others first," the page states. "He loved to serve and was a well-loved kid's church leader, set up and hospitality team member for their evening service, and was always first to volunteer when help was needed."