JACKSON — Three suspects are in custody and law enforcement officers are searching for another who fled on foot near here after an armed robbery and a chase.

According to Rich Square Police Lieutenant Kevin Byrd, as of Monday evening three suspects are in custody and officers from several law enforcement agencies are searching for a fourth person in a wooded area near Piney Grove Church off U.S. 158 one mile from Jackson. Byrd said the suspect had been spotted in the vicinity.

The ground search stems from a violent armed robbery that occurred in Rich Square Monday morning.

Byrd said a citizen residing on Pine Street was approached at their home by a female known to the resident. The female then introduced the victim to a male. As the two came inside the victim’s residence two other males approached. A weapon was brandished and money was demanded.

“When the victim refused he was struck in the head and received a two-inch gash,” said Byrd.

Byrd said the victim was then ordered to the ground and suspects stomped him. The foursome then searched the victim’s home, taking a shoebox containing U.S. currency, a small document safe and several pieces of jewelry.

The suspects fled in a green compact car with Virginia license plates.

In the meantime, the victim reported the crime and a description of the car was relayed on police radio.

Byrd said Northampton County Sheriff’s deputies spotted the car on N.C. 305 near the U.S. 158 and N.C. 305 intersection. A vehicle stop was initiated.

Byrd said the vehicle slowed down and two suspects exited the car. The vehicle then sped off.

Deputies were able to arrest the two suspects identified as Sharod Perry, 29, of Franklin, Va. and Rondever Williams, 32, of Courtland, Va.

Byrd said officers continued to pursue the vehicle east on U.S. 158. The vehicle stopped near Ray’s Place where another suspect fled the vehicle while the driver stayed behind.

Officers took the driver into custody. She is identified as Lavonda Jordan, 25, of Courtland, Va.

The suspects were each charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, possession of a fire arm with an altered serial number, first degree kidnapping and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. Byrd said the latter charge stems from a sawed-off shotgun that was discovered in the vehicle.

Byrd added he will be working on a fugitive warrant for Williams on Tuesday as he is wanted for a probation violation.

Byrd said officers from the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina Highway Patrol, Woodland Police Department, Jackson Police Department, Conway Police Department and Gaston Police Departments all assisted with the search for the fourth suspect.

Byrd said that suspect’s identity had not yet been confirmed.