SYRACUSE -- A man is arrested for hitting a coworker with a hammer while working on the Destiny USA expansion earlier this month.  Investigators say the assault was so brutal, the victim is lucky to be alive.

Leroy Smith, 36, was arrested Tuesday in Robeson County, North Carolina. He faces assault and weapon charges for striking Patrick Bell, 39, after a dispute -- allegedly about money.

The incident happened October 5, but now, almost two weeks later, Bell is still recovering. He is listed in serious condition at Upstate University.

Smith is being held in North Carolina, awaiting extradition back to Syracuse.

US Marshals helped Syracuse Police in the investigation.