Warrants have been taken out for his arrest in the murder of Gaines, 27, of Roanoke Rapids.

Investigator Bobby Martin of the Roanoke Rapids Police Department said Coleman frequents the Roanoke Rapids and Weldon areas and has ties to both communities.

He declined to discuss motive. “I don't want to speculate at this time. I'd rather wait on that part.”

Martin could not say whether any past matters involving Gaines had anything to do with his murder. “I don't know if it has anything to do with the past. We have plenty left to do and as we progress we may discover more information.”

A records checks on Coleman on the state Department of Corrections website showed only a larceny and breaking and entering charge for which he received a suspended sentence.

A search of the North Carolina Court System court dockets did not immediately render any current results on Coleman.

The investigation stemmed from a motor vehicle collision call at Fourth and Madison streets around 12:15 a.m. on October 23, the police department has said.

When Officer Matt Hunsucker arrived he found the victim in the vehicle unresponsive. Officers discovered Gaines had a gunshot wound and was deceased.

Anyone with information on Coleman's whereabouts is encouraged to call the police department at 252-533-2898 or the Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.

The investigation is still on going at this time, Hasty said in the statement.