AULANDER – An Aulander business owner was assaulted and robbed here Tuesday night.

Ahmed Mosleh Salem was allegedly struck with a baseball bat after leaving the Stop One Mart at approximately 11 p.m. Tuesday.

Bertie County Sheriff John Holley said his office received a call at 11:13 p.m. saying a person had been robbed. Upon arriving on the scene, officers found that Salem had been assaulted as well.

“He told the officers that he was leaving his place of business when he was struck from behind in the head,” Sheriff Holley said. “The suspect then tried to drag Mr. Salem to the dark side of the building.”

Salem reportedly told his assailant he would give him whatever money was in the store if he would allow him to live. The suspect took the cash from the store and fled on foot.

The suspect is described as a male of average height and medium build. He was wearing dark clothing and a hooded shirt.

Salem was transported to Roanoke-Chowan Hospital after the incident.

“We have a suspect, but anyone with more information is asked to call my office,” Sheriff Holley said.

The Bertie County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at 794-5330.