Officers Noland Coles and Kenny Melton responded to the call and learned the victim was playing the lottery in the store before leaving to get in their vehicle.
The suspect struck the victim from behind and a struggle over the gun ensued. The victim got the gun away from the suspect, who did manage to get an undisclosed amount of money from the victim.
The suspect fled on foot toward the wooded area behind Interstate Inn.
Lieutenant Chris Davis and Sergeant Thomas Mason, with his dog, Rio, arrived to perform a track, which went cold.
Avens said the suspect is believed to be a black male with a small build wearing a dark-colored hooded sweatshirt of jacket.
The victim was treated and released for minor injuries.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the police department at 252-536-3136 or Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.
