Three people are behind bars suspected of robbing and assaulting an 81-year old southwest Bakersfield man are behind bars tonight.

Police say the men went to the home on Thoreson Avenue yesterday morning asking to use the phone.

When the homeowner opened his front door -- that's when the robber pulled out a gun and forced his way inside the house.

The elderly man and his grandson were tied up while the man ransacked their home.

The homeowner suffered minor injuries in the ordeal.

Investigators say it was the grandson's cell phone, which was among the stolen items, that led police to the suspects a short while later.

20-year-old Timothy Chaffold and 20-year-old Tyrone Mitchell were arrested and are facing charges including conspiracy, armed robbery and gang participation.

Police also arrested 23-year-old Brandi Lenix for being an accessory.