Union, MO – A highway altercation in Franklin County ended with a violent assault and an arrest this week, according to local authorities.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies were dispatched around 1:25 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, to Hwy UU near Fire Fox Court after receiving calls about a fight in progress. When deputies arrived, they found two men in the roadway, including one victim covered in blood with injuries to his face.
According to the sheriff’s office, the victim told deputies he had been in an argument with another driver while traveling on Hwy UU. The dispute allegedly escalated when the suspect struck the victim multiple times in the head with a hammer. The victim reportedly exited his vehicle and tried to flee on foot, while the suspect followed.
Witnesses called 911 during the altercation and later told deputies they saw the suspect approaching the victim while holding the hammer. Investigators say the weapon was later found discarded in a ditch nearby.
The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Mohammed Alatawi of Florissant, MO, was taken into custody and booked into the Franklin County Adult Detention Facility. He faces a charge of first-degree assault. His bond was set at $150,000 cash only.
Deputies emphasized that all parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in court.
