Men Arrested After Violent Attack

Deputies arrested four men believed to be involved in a violent home invasion robbery that occurred in the Valley Thursday night.

William B. Welch, 18, address unknown, Clayton L. Neidigh, 21, 10011 E. 10th, Jake Goolie, 22, address unknown, and a 17-year-old male were arrested just before midnight Thursday. All three were arrested for first-degree robbery and first-degree burglary, officials said.

The officers were looking for suspects in a home invasion that took place earlier that evening at an apartment at 15th and University.

A victim told police that a group of men had forced their way into the apartment, hitting him in the chest with the butt of a rifle. Another victim told police that his head had been stepped on, and a lava lamp had been dropped on it.

The robbers stole a backpack, money and several other items, deputies said.

A tip led officers to believe the suspects were driving around the neighborhood in a dark-colored Chevrolet Blazer, stealing items from people’s yards.

They found the Blazer and pulled it over. Inside, they found ski masks, a knife, a rifle and a loaded pistol with the hammer cocked and the safety off. Deputies also found a backpack and other items matching the description of property taken during the home invasion.