Roanoke Rapids police are investigating an attempted armed robbery which occurred at the Julian R. Allsbrook Highway Hardee’s around 9:45 Wednesday night.

Chief Bobby Martin said officers were dispatched to the eatery after receiving a report of a masked person entering the building and pointing a gun at staff. The person went behind the counter and asked where the money was.

The person then ran out of the back of the business without money.

Martin said it is not clear whether the attempt Wednesday was related to a spate of recent robberies which have occurred in the city and the county since January 13.

Warrants have been filed in two of the robberies which have occurred in the city limits — the Highway 158 Family Dollar and The Store Next Door.

The suspect was not located and police continue to investigate.;

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police department at 252-533-2810 or Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.