A bystander tackled an armed robbery suspect early Monday, subduing him until police arrived after a taxicab driver was robbed at gunpoint, police said.

Gainesville Police Lt. John Robertson said shortly after 1 a.m. a female cab driver for El Palmar Taxi was robbed at the Lanier Terrace apartment complex on Summit Street by a man who put a pistol to her head and demanded money. The robber then ran from the area.

A driver for El Palmar in another cab spotted the suspect on foot around Downey Boulevard and relayed the location to police.

Meanwhile, a passenger in the cab jumped out and tackled the gunman as he ran, keeping him from leaving until police arrived, Robertson said.

Officers found a pistol and cash on the suspect, who was identified as 30-year-old Luis Daniel Ramos Davila of Gainesville.

Davila was charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, pointing a pistol at another, possession of cocaine and second-degree forgery.

The robbery victim was shaken up but was not injured, Robertson said.

Robertson said the bystander was commended for his bravery but warned of the dangers of subduing the gunman.

"The Gainesville Police Department discourages civilians from confronting armed suspects due to the potential risks involved," Robertson said. "Fortunately, this incident had a positive outcome."