A Roanoke Rapids man was charged with murder this morning following an argument with a woman in the parking lot of the Kirkwood Adams Community Center.

Roanoke Rapids Police Chief Lawrence Wiggins said 56-year-old Willie Lee Holmes was also charged with possession of a firearm by a felon. He was charged in the shooting death of Priscilla Kee.

Shortly after midnight, police responded to the community center at the intersection of Eleventh and Hamilton streets after receiving a shooting call. Officers observed a man, later identified as Holmes, running from the scene. He was taken into custody in the area of Eleventh and Jackson streets and found in possession of a firearm.

Kee sustained gunshot wounds and was taken to ECU Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries.

While officers were inside the community center at the time, Wiggins said there were no reports indicating an argument was occurring outside.

The warrant for felon in possession of a weapon stems from Holmes being in possession of a Hi-Point 9mm. He had been convicted of possession of a sawed-off shotgun in Greensville County on August 10, 2006, after being charged with the crime on November 11, 2005. He was sentenced to 10 years.

Holmes remained in the Halifax County Detention Center this afternoon without the opportunity for bond. Detention center records show he has a Wednesday district court appearance.

Wiggins said the investigation continues. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Halifax County Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444 or the police department at 252-533-2816.