ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A man has died after being shot in downtown Atlanta on Friday evening, just blocks away from the NCAA Tournament at State Farm Arena, according to police.

Atlanta police said they responded to the intersection of Luckie Street NW and Mills Street NW, where they found a 42-year-old man with a gunshot wound.

Officers said the man was taken to the hospital, where he was in critical condition until he died at around 4:15 a.m. on Saturday.

Two March Madness Sweet 16 games are being held at the arena.

Police said officers responded to the area around 6:35 p.m. The victim approached a group of people sitting on the sidewalk and “words were exchanged,” which led to gunfire, according to police.

Atlanta police said ahead of the tournament that visitors should stay vigilant and be cautious when in the area, given the size of the event.

“The Atlanta Police Department is well-versed in managing large-scale events and remains fully prepared to support the safety of both visitors and residents during this high-profile weekend,” the department said in a statement.

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First for updates.

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