HUNTINGTON -- City police found themselves Monday investigating a third home invasion in east Huntington in less than a week, prompting another call for the public's help in solving the cases.

The latest incident was reported at 11:48 p.m. Sunday in the 900 block of 24th Street. Initial reports indicate three men entered the home. All were dressed in black, hooded sweatshirts.

Huntington Police Cpl. Rob Stinnett said that description is similar to burglaries reported Nov. 13 and 14. Victims in each incident reported at least three, armed men forcibly entered through a back door, rushed inside using surprise and speed to demand money as they searched for items to steal.

No injuries have been reported.

The corporal, in acknowledging three home invasions can elevate public concern, said he "can't classify them as random, criminal acts." However, he would not elaborate on any possible relationship between the suspects and the victims or among the victims due to the ongoing investigation.

Stinnett urged anyone with information about the incidents to call the city's anonymous tip line at 304-696-4444. He said calls to that tip line already have provided police with valuable clues, but more information is needed to solve the case.

Officers have developed some leads. That includes information about a possible suspect vehicle, based upon an eyewitness and surveillance video.

The Nov. 14 incident happened in the 400 block of Cabell Court and involved up to four assailants, who kicked in the back door of a residence and took a variety of items. Indications were the assailants also had pistols.

The Nov. 13 incident happened in the 2500 block of 12th Avenue and involved three assailants who forced their way inside as they demanded cash and drugs. At least one of those assailants was armed with a gun.

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