Update: Four Acacia Crossings hostage takers at large

One Caucasian and three Hispanics are at large after taking three hostages in the 44000 Block of Portabello Rd. this afternoon.

The armed intruders robbed and fled the Acacia Crossings house before police could arrive.

The youth,17, and two children, 12 and 1, where found safe and uninjured.

“The SWAT team was called because reports indicated one suspect may still be in the home, possibly in the attic,” Pinal County Public Information Officer Mike Minter said.

Police searched the home and no suspects were apprehended. One weapon was found at the scene according to Minter.

“They didn’t get much,” said Susie Skehan, sister of the homeowner. “I think they were casing out the house.”

Skehan, a resident of Cobblestone Farms, was one of the first to arrive at the scene after her sister working in Mesa called her to care for the children. She said a few neighbors told police and firemen they saw males in a blue car putting on masks. Another witness she spoke with said a truck sat around the corner on a phone for a half hour.

Authorities have not confirmed these sightings.

One male went to the front door and rang the doorbell, while the others went to the back of the house wearing their masks, according to Skehan.

After entering, the suspects duct taped the hands, feet and eyes of the girls.

“But they didn’t tie the one year-old up,” she said. “They kept calling him ‘buddy.'”

When things got quiet, one of the girls wiggled their way free and dialed 9-1-1, said Minter.

This incident is under further investigation.

If you have information about this crime call the Sheriff’s Office at (520) 866-5111.

Pinal County SWAT was one of several agencies that responded to a hostage situation in Acacia Crossings.