The attempt occurred shortly after 11:45 p.m. when two employees were met by a person described as a white male standing at the front door armed with a handgun, Roanoke Rapids police said.
The man, whose face was covered with a light blue or Carolina blue hooded shirt, demanded money. Because the employees had set the alarm but had not closed the door, the alarm activated and scared the man away.
He drove off in a silver or gray midsized car and was last seen turning behind the Belk.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the police department at 252-533-2810 or Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.
