Authorities arrested one of two suspects Monday for a weekend home invasion robbery near Bass Lake that left a 77-year-old woman hospitalized in critical condition.
Madera County sheriff’s deputies arrested 18-year-old Alvin McDonald III, of North Fork, shortly before 11 a.m. Monday, and are searching for a second suspect, 23-year-old Ray Coleman, of North Fork.
The two suspects allegedly “had knocked on the door and then forced their way into the home” Saturday night, said Cmdr Bill Ward of Madera County Sheriff’s Office. The pair ransacked the home and “stole at least a handgun” before leaving on foot.
The female victim reportedly grabbed the gun first herself, but an attacker seized it and used it to beat her, according to a family friend cited by Gina Clugston of Sierra News Online. The family friend said the victim is in a coma, on a ventilator and has had brain surgery.
The victim’s adult son, who was present during the invasion, was unharmed and reportedly called 911. The sheriff’s office received a call about the home invasion in the 36000 block of Cedar Lane around 7:30 p.m. Saturday.
McDonald was arrested for attempted murder, robbery, burglary, assault with a deadly weapon (firearm), elder abuse, conspiracy, and using a firearm during the commission of a felony. Once found, Coleman would be arrested for the same charges.
Coleman (pictured at right) is described as “tall and thin with long hair.” He allegedly wore a sweatshirt, hood and mask during the invasion.
Anyone who has information regarding this case or the whereabouts of Ray Coleman is urged to call the Madera County Sheriff’s Office at 559-675-7770 or Valley CrimeStoppers at 559-498-STOP. Callers to Crime Stoppers are guaranteed anonymity. Tips received through Crime Stoppers that help lead to a felony arrest are eligible for a cash reward.
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