One suspect held, second sought in Roanoke Rapids store shooting

Roanoke Rapids, N.C. — Halifax County authorities late Thursday afternoon arrested a Roanoke Rapids man wanted in the shooting of a convenience store owner Wednesday night.

The Halifax County Sheriff's Office said Raed Sirhan was shot two or three times with an assault rifle around 9:15 p.m. at Nana's Quick Mart at 2360 N.C. Highway 48.

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Store owner shot in Roanoke Rapids attempted robbery

Sirhan was taken to an undisclosed hospital with life-threatening injuries. He was listed in critical but stable condition Thursday night, the sheriff's office said.

Traven Lee, 32, of Roanoke Rapids, faces three counts each of attempted murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon.

Authorities said they were looking for a second assailant, but they withheld his identity.

Anyone with information about the crime can contact Halifax County Crime Stoppers at 252-583-4444.

Witnesses in the store at the time told investigators that two men entered the store demanding money and immediately opened fire, firing about 10 to 15 shots.

"It appears they come in with more than just robbery on their mind," Halifax sheriff's Lt. Bobby Martin said. "They are considered very dangerous, and it's got us concerned."

The assailants fled the store without taking anything.

"Being surprised that there were other people in the store – that may have scared them off," Martin said.