A man killed by a Paterson police officer allegedly had a handgun during the fatal encounter that unfolded on East Main Street on Wednesday night.

New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, which is investigating the police-involved shooting, said investigators recovered a 9mm handgun near the deceased man.

Authorities have not released the man’s name. They said the incident occurred just before 9 p.m. on East Main and Hillman streets, an area known for drug activity and gun violence.

Preliminary investigation showed police officers were investigating a previous incident in the area when they encountered the individual. City officials said the man drew his weapon and fired at police. A police officer fired his service weapon, fatally wounding him, according to authorities.

First responders arrived at the scene and rendered aid. He was pronounced dead at the scene by a doctor at about 9:11 p.m.

The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office continues to investigate the incident. New Jersey law requires the attorney general to investigate fatal police-involved incidents.