Hasty would only say Gaines was shot with a firearm and at this point there are no suspect descriptions.

Motive behind the killing is still under investigation.

According to state Department of Correction records, Gaines was released from prison last November after serving a three-month sentence for conspiracy in a second-degree burglary following a September 2013 conviction.

He was also scheduled to appear in court next month and in November to answer to several charges that range from traffic offenses in district court to drug charges, including those lodged by the Roanoke Rapids Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division and the City County Drug Task Force in July where officers found stolen property and narcotics.

The police department began the investigation around 12:15 this morning when it received a call about a motor vehicle collision at Fourth and Madison streets, Hasty reported earlier today.

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

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police department at 252-533-2898 or Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.