NATCHEZ — The family of an elderly couple who were assaulted and robbed at their house Friday are offering a $5,000 reward leading to the arrest and conviction of the persons responsible.

John Hicks, the grandson-in-law of the 88-year-old man and 85-year-old woman who were pistol-whipped by two males at their Second Street house, said Tuesday both victims are recovering from their injuries.

“He’s alert and talking with us,” Hicks said of the husband. “He’s still in the hospital, and had hip surgery (Monday).”

Hicks said of the wife, “She was treated and released the night of the incident. She has stitches in her head.”

Hicks declined to identify the couple by name out of respect for the family’s privacy.

“This is such a horrible crime against the elderly, and it’s a shame people can’t feel safe in their own home,” Hicks said. “I think justice needs to be served.”

According to a previous report, Adams County Sheriff Chuck Mayfield said two males knocked on the elderly couple’s door, and when the husband opened the door, he was pistol-whipped to force entry.

Hicks said the suspects had asked to use the phone before the incident turned violent.

When the wife attempted to call 911, the assailants hit her in the head with a pistol.

Hicks said the husband broke his hip and suffered cuts to his face and forearm as a result of the attack.

“He is a World War II veteran,” Hicks said. “He’s been through so much defending his country, and then something like this happens.”

Anyone with information about the crime should contact ACSO Commander of Investigations Ricky Stevens at 601-442-2752 or the Miss-Lou Crime Stoppers at 601-442-5000. Tips will remain anonymous.