Police are investigating what lead to a man's death early Friday morning at a Webster shopping plaza, and Worcester County DA Joseph Early said it appears foul play was involved.

Just before 3 a.m. Friday, a man walked into the Webster Police Department to report a man sleeping at the Webster Commons Plaza on Main Street. When officers arrived, they found a deceased man in his late 30s. 

Businesses at the plaza were shut down for most of the day Friday. The plaza is occupied by Big Lots, Aubuchon Hardware, The Salvation Army and several other stores. Webster Police, Massachusetts State Police and the Worcester County District Attorneys Office roped off the parking lot for a death investigation. 

"We're really early in the investigation. There is still an active and ongoing investigation going on with regards to the crime scene itself," Early said. "I anticipate the lot here will be open shortly. We do have some people coming in to work on a cleanup where the crime scene is."

Early did not release the man's name, but said he was known to local police. He referred to him as a victim, and suggested foul play was involved. 

"I apologize for not having a little bit more with regards to the cause and manner of death, but we have to let the experts do their job at the medical examiner's office," Early said.

While the autopsy is conducted, police are looking to the public for help with the investigation. 

"Anyone who was in the area last night around that time is asked to contact Webster police," said Lieutenant Gordon Wentworth. "If you have any information about this incident, you're asked to contact Webster police at 508-943-1212. Anonymous tips are welcome through either that telephone number or our crime tips hotline through our website."

Early was also asked if it appeared a weapon was used in this incident, but as of Friday afternoon, he was unable to comment. A spokesperson for the DA's office said no further updates were expected Friday.