PORTLAND -- A Mercy Hospital security guard was shot and killed early this morning, according to police.

James Angelo, 27, of Portland, was outside on a break when multiple gunshots were heard around 4:10 a.m.

Hospital employees found Angelo in a Winter Street parking lot. He was treated at the Mercy Hospital emergency room before being transferred to Maine Medical Center, where he died.

Chief Joseph Loughlin said police do not know if the killing was random.

Police said witnesses described a possible interaction between Angelo and two individuals before shots were heard. Police said the two people were walking south on Winter Street and fled when shots were fired.

One of the individuals was described as a short black man in his early 20s with a slight build. He had short hair and appeared to be clean shaven. He was wearing black pants and a white hooded sweatshirt with a design or print. The other person was described only as wearing a light-colored shirt or jacket.

Police are asking anyone with information about the two individuals to contact them at 874-8479. Information can also be left at police.portlandmaine.gov by clicking the citizen input link.