The slogans on the walls of the nationalist Barcroft estate in Newry, Co Down, were covered with black paint, but the words underneath were still visible: "Eamon Collins is a tout." Another stated: "Collins - date of your death - 1999."
On a country lane just off the estate there was tight security at the scene of what early in the day was being described as a "hit-and-run" incident. The blood of the former IRA man was still clearly visible on the tarmac. Glass was also found near the body.
"He wasn't much liked around this area," one neighbour said. "But then again some other people aren't either."
During the afternoon there was little movement in or out of the family home, in a small cul-de-sac on the estate.
There was a heavy security presence also at the mortuary in Daisy Hill Hospital, where a family member arrived at noon to identify the body. The head injuries were so severe that identification was difficult.
According to locals, Mr Collins had not lived at the family home in Newry for some time. He moved to Camlough, Co Armagh, last summer. The house he was renovating was attacked by arsonists in September. However, Mr Collins visited the Newry family home regularly to see his wife, two daughters and two sons. A number of other relatives live in the immediate area of the Barcroft estate.
The secluded area where the body was found remained sealed off last night.