The Virginian-Pilot carrier shot and killed while on his route this morning was a “good Christian man,” family members said.

John Price Jr., 50, was shot shortly after 4 a.m. in the 100 block of Brewer Avenue. Witnesses who live nearby said they saw Price lying on the ground with a newspaper clutched in his hand.

“He always took care of his family,” said Lola Price, the wife of the victim. The two had been married for seven years, and Price worked two jobs to provide for the family.

Price said she was concerned about her husband being out in the early hours of the morning carrying the paper, and sometimes wanted to go with him.

“He wanted me to stay home and let him do the job,” Price said.

A young, thin, black male was seen running from the scene and down Second Avenue after the shooting.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP. Callers to Crime Line never have to give their name or appear in court, and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.