By KRWG News
Juarez, Mexico – Three bystanders have died in the crossfire of a shootout between gunmen, police and soldiers in northern Mexico.
The victims were a 14-year-old boy and two women aged 18 and 47.
According to authorities, gunmen traveling in two vehicles opened fire on a convoy of federal police and soldiers today. The officers and soldiers returned fire.
It's not clear who fired the shots that killed the bystanders, but state officials say they're investigating.
Mexico's army, which has taken a leading role in combating drug gangs, has come under criticism for alleged indiscriminate use of force and firing on civilians.
Three gunmen also died today in a separate shootout in another city in the same Mexican state.
The area has been the scene of bloody turf battles between a cartel and a drug gang.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.