Three suspects are in custody following a residential armed robbery that took place Monday morning, September 29, in Benton County.
According to Benton County Sheriff Kenny Christopher, an unnamed victim awoke to the sight of three individuals wearing ski masks inside her home.
One the masked men allegedly pointed a gun at her and ordered her to stay in bed while the group stole a number of firearms from the residence.
According to Christoper, the homeowner was able to provide investigators with possible identifying information, as well as a description of the vehicle they fled in.
Benton County deputies initiated a manhunt, during which they sent out a BOLO to area agencies, including Carroll County Sheriff’s Office.
Given possible ties of one of the men to Bruceton, Hollow Rock-Bruceton Central went on a soft lockdown, out of an abundance of caution.
Deputies detained the individuals in Benton County, obtained a search warrant, and recovered the stolen firearms.
Investigators also say the suspects attempted to destroy evidence, as well.
Nineteen-year-old Trace Tucker of Bruceton is being held on a $500,000 bond. His charges include aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, theft of a firearm, interference with 911, and tampering with evidence.
Eighteen-year-old Michael Bailey of Camden is being held without bond. He is charged with criminal responsibility for conduct of another in an aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated assault, theft of a firearm, felony in possession of evidence, and failure to comply with court orders.
Twenty-year-old Romeo Perez of Holladay is being held on a $500,000 bond. His charges include aggravated burglary, criminal responsibility for conduct of another in an aggravated robbery, theft of a firearm, and tampering with evidence.
Sheriff Christopher commended his investigators and deputies for their swift response.
“Within about two hours, we had it wrapped up,” he said. “My investigators and deputies did an excellent job putting the pieces together fast.”
He also praised the homeowner’s alertness and composure, which he said were critical in helping law enforcement solve the case so quickly.
The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are possible.
