A shooting in Stratford turned deadly early Saturday morning and police are asking for the public's help tracking down the shooter.

The incident began around 2 a.m. when neighbors say gunfire broke out, waking them from their sleep.

Authorities say when they arrived on the scene, they found a man who had been shot and took him to Bridgeport Hospital. He later died.

Investigators say they the deadly exchange was triggered by an encounter between four men.

Preliminary investigation revealed two men were sitting in a parked car on Regency Terrace, near Peace Street when they were approached two other men on foot.

Investigators say the men exchanged words, and one of the men produced a firearm and fired at least one shot, striking the victim. The victim had been an occupant of the vehicle. The two men on foot fled the area.

Police say they are in the process of collecting surveillance video and other evidence.

Authorities say this was the first murder of the year in Stratford.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Stratford Police Department at 203-375-8477.