Suspect arrested in Clayton Wal-Mart assault

Clayton, N.C. — A Johnston County man has been charged with malicious assault in secret and assault with a deadly weapon in connection with an attack of a Wal-Mart employee in Clayton.

Authorities said Arnold Dyer, 18, of 600 South Boling St in Clayton, suffered serious head injuries. The Clayton Police Department responded to an assault report at 10:28 p.m. in the parking lot of the Wal-Mart at 805 Town Center Blvd.

Dyer was transported by ambulance to WakeMed, where he was listed in good condition Sunday.

On Friday, police arrested Thomas Michael Accardi, 21, of 2008 Huntclub Drive in Clayton, at his residence. He was charged with felonies in the attack.

Investigators believe Accardi came from a hiding place, then ran up behind the victim and struck him in the head with a baseball bat.

Accardi is being held in the Johnston County Jail under a $100,000 bond. His first court appearance is scheduled for Monday.

Police said the case remains under investigation. No motive for the assault has been determined, and additional charges and arrests are possible.