BALTIMORE (WJZ)– The search for a killer. A Baltimore community rallies in the wake of a respected researcher’s murder while police try to find out who gunned him down.

Mike Schuh has more on the investigation and the outpouring of support.

Residents are heartbroken over Dr. Peter Marvit’s death. But this rally is an effort to take a stand and stop these kinds of crimes from happening.

A rally in Northeast Baltimore shows the power of individuals when they unite. Residents, including the mayor and other elected officials, walked the streets. It’s a show of love and sorrow following the death of Dr. Peter Marvit.

“We often have to take tragedy to turn that into positive energy,” Baltimore City Councilman Brandon Scott said.

The 51-year-old researcher was shot and killed outside his Bel Air-Edison home Monday night.

“Absolutely outraged. This is a beautiful community with lovely people who work hard everyday and this gentleman did not deserve this,” Bonnie Erickson, a resident of the community, said.

People who live around the area and the mayor agree it will take a combination of good police work and vigilance to keep this neighborhood safe.

“We’re committed to bringing these people to justice,” Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake said.

Police believe robbery may be the motive but investigators aren’t saying if anything was taken.

Marvit worked at the National Institutes of Health. He was a beloved scientist and friend who’d just returned home from choir practice.

“Peter was all about research that helped people. He was all about music that enabled people,” Tom Hall, Marvit’s friend, said.

Police have stepped up patrols in the area.

Anyone with information about Marvit’s death is asked to call Baltimore City Police.