Investigators with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office have arrested a suspect they believe was involved in a Newton Grove home invasion that took place back on June 14.

Robert Earl Spruill, Jr., 21,of 201 Kerr St., Clinton, was charged with first degree robbery, attempted robbery and assault with a dangerous weapon inflicting serious injury.

Spruill is believed to be one of five armed suspects who were dropped off near William R. King Road by a female operating a dark-colored passenger vehicle.

According to reports, the five suspects forced their way into the residence at 3501 William R. King Road, Newton Grove, and demanded cash from those inside. During the encounter, two of the robbery victims were each shot by one or more of the suspects, and received non-life threatening injuries. Upon leaving the residence, one of the suspects struck one of the victims in the back of the head with an unknown object causing minor injuries.

In all, three residents of the location were identified as victims. They were: Jenaro Olvera, 25; Miguel Vega, 20; and Bulmara Ceras, 21. All three were transported to Sampson Regional Medical Center. Olvera and Vega received non-life threatening gunshot wounds, and Ceras received a blunt force trauma wound. They were all treated and released that night.

Spruill was taken into custody at his Kerr Street home Wednesday.

Officials with the sheriff’s department, who released the information Thursday, said that the arrest came from following-up on leads given to them. Spruill was able to be identified as a suspect in the crime and investigators said they had enough information to place him under arrest.

He was taken to the Sampson County Detention Center and placed under a $100,000 bond. His trial date was set for Aug. 21.

“We are still following up on other leads we have in this case,” said Sheriff’s Capt. Eric Pope. “Hopefully, additional arrests will be forthcoming.”

Investigators with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office are following up on all leads, however they ask anyone with information to please call the department at (910) 592-4141.

To reach Doug Clark call 910-592-8137 ext. 123 or send e-mail to sisports@myclintonnc.com.