Lakeland couple tied up in home, robbed at gunpoint

An elderly couple is in shock, and three suspects have been arrested, and Lakeland police continue their investigation after a home invasion in Lakeland early Monday morning. 

Close to 1 a.m., Lakeland police received a call regarding a home invasion on Cleveland Heights Boulevard. The victim, Claudia Critton, had reported to police that someone had rung her doorbell and run away earlier in the evening. Five minutes later, the doorbell rang again and four suspects entered the home. 

Police say at least one of the suspects was armed with a handgun. The suspects proceeded to tie up Mrs. Critton and threaten bodily harm to Mr. Critton if he did anything. The individuals stole electronics, money and the couple's car. 

Just 30 minutes later, police say Lt. Brent Addison spotted a speeding vehicle. He later found the vehicle crashed into a ditch at the intersection of Main Street and Don's Court. Three suspects were found inside the car who matched the descriptions provided by Mr. and Mrs. Critton. Also in the vehicle were several of the Critton's stolen items. 

The suspects taken into custody are 16-year-old Julio Alcantar, 15-year-old Joseph Alcantar, and 19-year-old Issiah Coffy.  

The vehicle they had been driving was not the car stolen from the Crittons, but a different vehicle that was reported stolen in Kissimmee. 

Mr. and Mrs. Crifton told FOX 13 that they are "thankful to be alive." 

Police are still searching for the fourth suspect and for the stolen car, which is a 2012 black Buick Lacrosse with Florida tag BGU-C84.