NATCHEZ — Natchez police are searching for three men who reportedly beat a man with a baseball bat then robbed him Friday because the man recently assisted police in a murder investigation.

Natchez Police Detective Jerry Ford said arrest warrants were issued for Brandon Patterson, 22, Justin Patterson, 20, and Marcus McDonald in connection with the robbery.

Ford said the victim assisted police with the investigation into the Feb. 23 murder of 20-year-old Terrence Thornburg.

Maurice Davis, 22, 165 Tubman Circle, was charged Friday with murder for reportedly shooting Thornburg in the back of the head in Thornburg’s house.

Ford said Brandon Patterson, Justin Patterson and McDonald are friends with Davis and confronted the victim on St. Catherine Street near Fleming Body Shop.

One of the suspects struck the victim in the face with a baseball bat, knocking him to the ground, where the suspects assaulted him then took cash, a cell phone and jewelry from him.

The victim suffered cuts and bruises on his face and head and was treated at a local hospital, Ford said.

Brandon Patterson is described as a 5-foot-7-inch, 22-year-old black male who weighs 145 pounds with black hair, brown eyes and a goatee.

Justin Patterson is described as a 5-foot-6-inch, 20-year-old black male who weighs 140 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

Marcus McDonald is described as a 6-foot-2-inch black male who weighs 175 pounds with gray eyes.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of the suspects should call Crime Stoppers at 601-442-5000.

Crime Stoppers offers a reward of up to $1,000 for a tip leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect.

Callers may remain anonymous.