Supects in Custody in Triple Murder in Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ga. - Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the Jan. 4 murders of a woman and two family members at a residence in Upatoi, Georgia.

On Tuesday, Columbus police announced suspects Jevarceay Tapley, 17, and Raheam Gibson, 19, are charged with three counts of murder, two counts of theft by motor vehicle, burglary and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.

Police said Gloria Short, 54, her 17-year-old grandson Caleb Short, and her 11-year-old granddaughter, Gianna Lindsay were beaten to death inside Gloria Short's home on the 3000 block of Bentley Drive. Mrs. Short's husband discovered the bodies.

Police said there was no sign of forced entry at the home and that one of the suspects, Tapley, was a family friend. While police haven't revealed a possible motive, family members told FOX 5 News they believe the suspects thought the Shorts were targeted because the suspects believed they had money.

Tapley and Gibson are due in court on Friday. Police said the search continues for additional suspects in the case.